As a reminder, the team will gathering on August 7th at the Citadel. It will be a squad of 30 players. Some of the internationals will arrive on August 11th, when the international window opens. Tolkin also shared that the team will be training in Seattle ahead of the Americas Rugby Championship. Additionally, he confirmed that Mate Moeakiola will be returning to L'Uson.
Take the jump to read the interview
This Is American Rugby: How are you preparing for Canada? Is it difficult when you are very familiar with the other team?
Mike Tolkin: "Each team is pretty familiar with each other. You know all the big things pretty thoroughly. You are trying to find a couple of little things, whether it be personnel or systems, that you can take advantage of."
TIAR: Is the rivalry personal after dropping recent matches to Canada?
MT: "You always want to come out on top of these games. It's been frustrating. As a competitor you always want to win these games. When they've had your number it motivates you."
TIAR: Have they considered a change at fly-half?
MT: "No. In terms of Toby, as the tour went on the attack began to click. In the fall there wasn't a lot of players coming in and out. This summer, due to when the PNC was plus the overseas travel, there wasn't a real solid base of four or five weeks together. He didn't get that continuity that we got in November with 99% of the same guys training together every day. Naturally it was a little tougher to gain momentum but toward the end it was better. Toby is a very good play-maker. He attacks the line well and has great skills. We have a lot of faith in Toby.
TIAR: Who else is an option at the position and who are you looking to develop?
MT: "Adam Siddall is a quality player at a number of positions and he is our only other option there right now. We're also look to develop other players, like Folau Niua and Zach Pangelinan."
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