USA Men's 15s interim Head Coach Scott Lawrence had named his squad to face French professional team Stade Toulousain in Sandy, Utah Saturday.
The game will feature more reserves than usual and Lawrence has named a gameday squad of 26.
"We've been focused on getting the newly joined players up to speed with the basics of what we do as a team, getting them connected into the squad. We're looking forward to playing against a really good opponent, it's going to be highly skilled and a fast game that will hopefully be entertaining for our home fans," said Lawrence.
USA v Stade Toulousain
— USA Rugby (@USARugby) September 14, 2023
Saturday, Sept. 16, 9pm ET
America First Field | Sandy, UT pic.twitter.com/Dhd0LJDpMP
While Saturday’s match won’t count as a test match or international cap, the competitive dynamic will still rise to the level of quality international rugby as the centralized depth of Stade Toulousain will present a unique growth opportunity for the young USA squad. Competing as a familiar and cohesive unit will be a strength for the French side, and one to coach the Eagles on adapting and playing fast. More than anything however, the USA will have an opportunity to perform with home support in the stands and take in a special evening in front of friends, family and fans.
Five Utah Warriors will take the field for the USA including Bailey Wilson (brother to starting fullback Mitch Wilson), Keni Nasoqeqe, Devin Short, Line Latu, and Joe Mano, all making their USA debut. will all pull on the USA shirt for the first time. An incredible opportunity for these prospective players to find inspiration on the international stage and put their hands up for selection to test match tours going forward. Bryce Campbell and CC Mahoni get their first runouts of the year, while unfortunately Cam Dolen (illness) and Lauina Futi (injury) will not play.
