CHULA VISTA, Calif. — The USA Men’s Sevens player pool will compete in two rounds of intrasquad matches for the Golden Eagles Showdown Series from December 4-5 and 11-12 at the Elite Athlete Training Center in Chula Vista, Calif.

The event gives players an opportunity to show their progression since training resumed in September, while USA fans can once again cheer for their Olympic program. 

Each day features two games at 12 PM PT and 3 PM PT, respectively. The USA Women’s Sevens will play a special end-of-year exhibition game on December 4, KO 12:30 PM PT, before departing for the holiday break. All matches will have a free live stream with details to be announced in due course. 

Ahead of both matches, USA fans can participate in a contest to name the two USA Men’s Sevens teams competing in the Showdown. Details will be published on USA Rugby’s social media channels over the coming weeks. 

The Elite Athlete Training Center will remain closed to fans in an effort to mitigate the risks of COVID-19. Both USA Sevens programs have undergone rigorous testing, quarantine and safety measures, in accordance with local health mandates, since reassembling in September. Players and staff will remain in their respective bubble for the duration of the event. 

Named after the USA Sevens primary philanthropic support group, the Golden Eagles, the series title is a tribute to the years of generous and ongoing contributions. Thanks to the Golden Eagles, USA Men’s and Women’s Sevens players have trained and competed at the highest level with ancillary initiatives, like the C.A.R.E. program, established to ease the transition to life after rugby. 

“We really look forward to playing this competitive series, even if it’s internally, as the last 8 months has been frustrating for all on so many levels," said the USA Men's 7s team Head Coach Mike Friday. “It is important for us to share our commitment and resilience with the USA Rugby community and globally, knowing that we will not be distracted in our build to the Olympics or the 2021 World Series -- regardless of how challenging the circumstances. As a pack, we enjoy our responsibility to represent the United States and cherish this opportunity to share that. We will truly let the DAWGS out with immense gratitude for the support of our Golden Eagles and the dedication of proud American rugby fans who can finally watch their pack compete.”

Rosters will be announced in the week preceding the first set of games.