In near perfect weather conditions, the third weekend of Mid-Atlantic High School Sevens featured the Maryland Exiles Sevens Tournament held as the opener for the important Mid-Atlantic Premier Division Match between the Potomac Exiles and the Norfolk Blues.  In attendance to check out the action were former USA Eagles Chris Saint, Owen Lentz, and Tom Sanders.

Maryland Exiles I, which featured several players from the French International School, was able to overcome some tough competition in their bracket beating Calvert Hall and the Heights. Prince William County from Virginia were also in a tough time with Great Falls and Maryland Exiles II in their bracket.

The final was a back and forth encounter.  Prince William County sought to punch the ball up field looking for support and were able to draw first blood with Doug O'Donnell, Angelo Dacey. and Jose Reyes crossing the line for the Virginia team.  The Exiles countered by passing the ball from sideline to sideline utilizing the skills of Ryan Hunt, Charles Martel and Nicholas Bernhardt-Lanier stretching the PWC's cover defense to the breaking point.  The final came down to the last play of the game, a converted try which sealed a 26-19 victory for the Exiles.

Nicholas Bernhardt-Lanier was named the MVP of the tournament for his finishing speed and cover tackles.  Maryland Exiles II were consolation match winners defeating the Heights.  All of the high school players there were given the opportunity to see Potomac snatch two important wins as the DIII team defeated West Potomac 41-14 and the DI team defeated Norfolk 18-17 in a tightly contested and physical match.

Chris Saint was impressed with the skill level shown in the tournament stating: "It is great to see such skill level in the high school game."  Owen Lentz and Tom Sanders both concurred, with Sanders saying: "I wouldn't be surprised to see one of these kids playing for the US in a few years."

To see video of the final, click here.