It's easy to forget that Eagle Impact Rugby Academy has been running skill development and player development camps, competitions, and tours for over 15 years now.
But they have, and this winter was an active one for them.
The vision for EIRA has always been "Close the Gap" and that's a long-term goal that is made harder by the fact that no one American rugby is trying to catch is standing still.
But the plan is always to help develop the next generation of high-level players.
"We will stick to that vision regardless," said EIRA Director Salty Thompson. "EIRA's mission to help develop the next generation is solidly in place. We're looking to continue to supply new talent to the USA Pathways but equally important is to encourage players to stay in the game, play in colleges and or clubs, enjoy their playing careers and become referees, coaches, and supportive parents to the next generation."
This season EIRA welcomed 255 total players from 32 states and two countries for a five-day assembly at Grande Sports World in Casa Grande, Ariz. It was three full days and two half-days of tital rugby immersion.
Of the players attending, here's how they broke down:
Girls born 2007 to 2012: 64
Boys born 2007-2008: 58
Boys born 2009: 41
Boys born 2010: 50
Boys born 2011-2013: 42
The camp was open to all that submitted EIRA prospect forms and also received positive feedback from their coaches regarding their character. Each camper submitted two character references from their classroom teachers asking about their character traits.
"That's over 500 references and I can attest that the camp invitees were tremendous young student-athletes," said Thompson.
With an open-door policy for the camp, the players demonstrate a wide range of skills, experience, and potential. The volunteer staff of 30 included coaches, managers, and athletic trainers work hard to provide a quality experience for everyone.
"We want them going home excited about their game, their future, and having made a bunch of new friends from around the country," said Thompson.
Assessments
Each player receives a personal assessment of his/her strengths and work-ons.
In addition, the players submit their own evaluation of the coaches and the experience, and the ratings there were extremely positive in how the coaches demonstrate their knowledge, how the camp is run, and the facilities.
That, along with a parent survey (also ratings being very high) are used to improve the experience each year.
