The USA Men's age-grade programs have named their lists for the winter pathways camps for U18s and U20s.
Pathways coaching staff have invited the top 50 prospects in both age grades to attend a five-day, intensive evaluation focusing on cohesion, alignment, and elevating the standard across the country as coaches assess prospects for the upcoming Junior National Team Tours including the U20’s Junior World Championship in July 2026.
“The winter camp is a critical touchpoint in the identification and development of our U18 and U20 players," said Head of Men’s Players and Systems, Brendan Keane. "It provides a focused environment to evaluate where athletes sit in the pathway, reinforce standards, and accelerate growth during a key period of the year when players are otherwise dispersed across different programs.
“The winter camp allows us to align technical, tactical, physical, and mental development while deepening players’ understanding of what it means to represent the United States. For our U20s, this camp is especially important as we build cohesion, clarity, and competitive readiness on the road to the Junior World Championships in 2026.
“Just as importantly, the winter camp strengthens connections between athletes, coaches, and staff, ensuring continuity and alignment as players progress toward higher levels of international rugby. As ever, we will continue to be on the lookout for new talent in 2026 to continually increase the competition for places in all of the Junior National Teams.“
The U20 Junior World Championships will take place in Georgia this coming July 2026 with players born between 2006-2007 eligible, allowing for potential ‘07 born U18’s with standout performances at winter camp to make a bid at selection.
The tournament has been expanded after a hiatus year for the Junior World Trophy, which World Rugby has discontinued.
