Bellingham, Wash. (Press Release) – The Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club is thrilled to announce that the USA Rugby Men’s U20 National Team will be training at the deWilde Rugby & Polo Fields from May 20th through May 28th, 2024 in the greater Bellingham, Wash. area, located 90 miles north of Seattle and 20 miles south of the Canadian border.

The deWilde Fields complex is centrally located to Vancouver Island, BC in Canada making it the most optimal training ground location for the U20 team as they prepare for this upcoming competition.

This exciting development will see the nation's top young rugby talent ascend upon Bellingham for a week of intensive training in preparation for their upcoming two-match World Rugby U20s Qualification series against Canada, just north in Langford, BC on Vancouver Island. The winner of the series will continue on to the U20 Trophy competition in Scotland July 2-17 featuring 8 national teams fighting for promotion to the World Rugby U20 Championship 2025.

"We are honored to host the USA Rugby U20 National Team," said Kellen Wiggins, President of the Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club. "This is a fantastic opportunity for our local community to witness the future stars of American rugby and showcase the excellent facilities at deWilde Rugby & Polo Fields."

The training camp will provide the U20 players with a valuable opportunity to assemble for an extended period ahead of the qualifiers and continue to build team chemistry under the guidance of Head Coach Neethling Gericke. Supporters will have a chance to observe the USA squad during the intensive training camp, with specific details to be announced closer to the camp date.

“Being able to assemble in the state of Washington, so close to where we will be playing, is crucial to our preparation in search of consecutive qualification,” said Gericke, “We are grateful to the Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club for their hospitality and look forward to a productive 10 days at deWilde Fields.”

About Chuckanut Bay Rugby Club

Founded in 1973, is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Ferndale, just north of Bellingham, WA. We are dedicated to fostering the sport of rugby for all ages and genders in the Pacific Northwest. Our club offers a competitive environment for adult teams, while also providing a strong focus on youth development through our adult programs. Learn more at chuckanutrugby.com