Eagles 7's Extended Camp Attendees Revealed

Late last week U.S.A. Rugby announced which players would be receiving contracts. Those players will make up the heart of the 7's team and will be training full-time in Chula Vista, but as part of an effort to expand the playing pool, Alex Magleby will be inviting players to train with the team. The first batch of those players, 18 in all, has now been revealed. 

Of the names revealed, several have had extensive time previously with the team. Former contract players Rocco Mauer and Pete Tiberio return. Zach Pangelinan also returns after playing with the 15's team. Other notable names include college standouts Dean Gericke and Madison Hughes. As previously reported, former Dartmouth standout Nick Schwieger will also be a part of the team. 

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Also training with the team include a score of players with both Rugby Union and Rugby League experience. Taylor Welch, who has played with the Chicago Griffins, Aix-en-Provence in the ProD2, and Sale in Rugby League.  Dustin Umeda and Michael Garvey also have experience playing with the U.S.A. Tomahawks.

Other players invited to camp include former Navy standout Elliot Joses, U-20 player Alex Taefu, and Pila Taufa, a player with experience in England's lower leagues after playing in Hawaii. Denver Barbarian Kyle Hitt and former Texas A&M standout Hunter Leland are in camp. Tyler Spitz has experience previously in camp under Al Caravelli as well as in club rugby in Australia. Seattle-based player Kellen Gordon is also invited.

Olympic Development Academy coaches Evan Haigh, Aaron Manheimer, and James Walker will all be in attendance.

Overall, it's a solid list that should push the guys in camp. Magleby has made it clear that just because a player has a contract does not mean he will make the team. It's up to that player to keep his contract.

List of invitees:

Gabe Alder

Michael Garvey

Dean Gericke

Kellen Gordon

Kyle Hitt

Madison Hughes

Elliot Joses

Hunter Leland

Rocco Mauer

Zach Pangelinan

Nick Schwieger

Tyler Spitz

Alex Taefu

Pila Taufa

Keone Tawata

Pete Tiberio

Dustin Umeda

Taylor Welch