EIRA U15s Cap Successful Tour of Spain
Eagle Impact Rugby Academy took a U15 Developmental Team to Spain this past week.
With a 27-player squad from 15 states, including 11 middle-school players and ranging in age from 13 to 15, the EIRA U15s went 4-1, winning the Arroyo International Tournament in Valladolid and losing a precursor game against Madrid All Star Select.
The EIRA coaching staff stressed defense in their p
US-Centric Teams in Pro Rugby; How Are They Doing?
Let's take a look at the latest from two mostly USA-based professional teams in action this spring.
As reported on GRR, The American Raptors changed coaches in what appears to be a move made over team performance.
Former Eagle Mose Timoteo was brought in: Precipitous Coaching Change for American Raptors after 0-3 Start
The result?
Precipitous Coaching Change for American Raptors after 0-3 Start
After losing their opening three matches in Super Rugby Americans by a combined score of 145-32, the American Raptors have changed coaches for the second time this season.
After visa problems prompted a switch before the SRA games began, Canadian David Butcher took over.
But Butcher is now gone and while there's no official word from the City of Glendale, Colo.
As a 17-year-old Spencer Huntley required a waiver to play for the USA U20s, an indication of how he was rated in the USA age-grade pathway. He got that waiver and impressed for the USA U20s, and then moved up to the USA U23s. He led the San Diego Mustangs to a national HS Club championship in 2024.
He also played in the SoCal single-school league for Cathedral Catholic.
Hope Rogers began playing rugby at age 16 in high school and continued to compete during her time at Penn State University. There, she won four National Championships, was crowned MVP on two occasions, was named to the USA Under-20s and earned Collegiate All-American honors for four years. Rogers was also an impressive discus player during her senior year in high school where she broke a school record and won Gold at Districts for the sport.
Nathan Caruso is a steady, smart fly half who drives Villanova’s attack with calm decision-making and a reliable skill set. He’s been central to Villanova’s success in the MARC, controlling tempo and keeping the team organized under pressure.
Tonga Kofe is one of the most promising young front-rowers to come out of the American rugby pathway. A powerful and hard-working prop, he rose through the Utah Warriors development system.
Ray Santiago has emerged as one of RPI’s most influential forwards, a player whose size, athleticism, and rapid development make him stand out in the Division II landscape.
Christy Ringgenberg is one of the most accomplished and versatile players to wear the USA jersey, earning recognition on the Goff Rugby Report All-Time American list for her impact on both 15s and 7s.