There are plenty of high school and youth rugby connections on the USA team slated to play Tonga this afternoon (ESPN3, kickoff 3:30pm ET from Toronto).

Phil Thiel, Lou Stanfill, Cam Dolan, Scott LaValla, Zack Test, Folau Niua, Brett Thompson, Zack Fenoglio, Nick Wallace, Eric Fry, Mike Petri, Thretton Palamo, and Tim Stanfill all played high school or age-grade rugby in the USA. But right now Troy Hall is living it as Rugby Oregon’s Development and Boys HP Director.

Hall coached the Rugby Oregon Boys select side, which won the Great Northwest Challenge, and he also played for NYAC (that’s right, flying across the country to do so). While he has had a job to do with Rugby Oregon, right now Hall is focused on playing for the USA. After coming out of retirement Hall had to endure a six-month stand-down period before playing international rugby again. He’s done that, and starts at fullback for the Eagles against Tonga.

“Personally, I think being a part of the squad for the Pacific Nations was a big step for me,” said Hall. “After last year [and having to wait] I’m confident moving forward. I’m versatile enough to play anywhere, so that helps a lot.”

Hall said the vibe in the team has been very positive, and the players are happy to be together as a unit, with only one notable absence (Samu Manoa).

“I’ve been around a lot and I’n pretty familiar with the boys, and have played with most of them, so I continue to train hard and find my way,” said Hall. “There’s still a lot of hard work to do, but we’re raring to go.”

For many rugby players in the USA, professional rugby is part of the dream. But living in the USA is also part of the dream, and rugby players often have to find work that enables them to play. Working in rugby, which is what Hall is doing, is one way. And for the Rugby Oregon players, being coached by an active national team player is a little extra special.

"Anything Troy commits to he gives 110%," said Rugby Oregon President Jenn Heinrich. "Whether it's in a school classroom introducing rugby for the first time, running youth summer camps, coaching and developing All Stars or his own national team preparation. Our players benefit from his experience at the highest level of the game but it's his commitment, professionalism and passion for growing and developing the game in our community that sets him apart from the rest.  It's amazing for the entire Rugby Oregon community to have such a close connection to the men's national team and it's inspirational for our young athletes to have the opportunity to work with Troy."