Two Close Games for USA Falcon Women in Brazil

Leading into this tour Brandon Sparks, USA Rugby's Head of Women's High Performance said this was an important proving ground for players just on the cusp of being capped, or players who have only been capped a few times. This was also a key chance for coaches with Eagle aspirations to run the team.

“The selection process for this traveling roster was in collaboration with our pathway coaches and national team staf," said Sparks. "We are excited to see the players who made the trip as it's an exciting blend of national team players and upcoming pathway players. We also are working to expand our pool of coaches and support staff and it is exciting to provide opportunities for them with this tour. This tour is another step in progressing the development and creating opportunities for the players in America. While the short turnaround from PAC4 and the timing of this tour with college graduations and other important life milestones that happen this time of year was a challenge, we will keep creating more opportunities for players to play rugby.”

The USA Falcons roster included several players in college or just graduating, and even a recent high schooler in Sariah Ibarra out of Belmont Shore (who has flirted with playing for New Zealand and could play for either NZ or the USA).