Full International

The sweep was not to be, however, as the USA fell 17-14 to Wales in the full-length U18 international. The USA worked hard and led 14-12 late. But the Welsh defense, which they had worked on doggedly before the game, came to the fore. Wales scored in the final 30 second to win it 17-14.

Regardless, this was a hugely successful showing for the USA, and their ability and desire to play a wide-open style is a signal of how the women's national team game can develop from now on. 

"Our players demonstrated their abilities straight away in the festival games," Whitwell told GRR. "We wanted to push the pace of play which forces decisions to be made quickly while under pressure. The style of game allowed our players to showcase their athleticism."

The games are one thing, but playing on tour is another part of the experience.

"Playing in a country where rugby is the national sport was an integral part of the experience," Whitwell said. "For many of our players, it was the first time they had played in a stadium with a crowd enthusiastically cheering for the opposition. Many players identified that the pressure affected their focus, which is why playing international matches at the age grade levels is critical for development. Learning to handle pressure early in their careers will equip them on their journey to the senior team and the big tests like the World Cup and Olympics."

USA U18 Staff:
Head Coach: Susan Whitwell 
Asst Coach:  Orlando Pulou
Asst Coach:  Kelly Griffin
Manager:  Stacy Mancuso
Trainer: Kiah Sundermeir

The squad numbered 27 players, chosen from a July 13-19 camp of 40. Players were identified through attending local Talent ID days, tournaments like the High School National Championships, National All Star Tournament in Florida, Great Northern Challenge in Montana as well as local and regional coach recommendations.  

These games were also played under law variations, including some experimental ones. They were:

The team who concedes points will gather at the 50 meter line rather than behind the posts. 

No scrum resets—a free kick will be awarded instead.

No kicking for posts on a penalty.

Three mauls total are allowed per game per team.

The kicker has 30 seconds to kick the conversion.

Player receiving a yellow card must leave the field, but may be replaced by another player immediately

Player receiving a red card is done for the rest of the day but may be substituted 10 minutes after the card is given.

Tackles must be below the sternum.

USA Women’s U18s Wales Tour Coaches and Staff
Head Coach | Sue Whitwell
Kelly Griffin | Assistant Coach
Orlando Pulou | Assistant Coach
Kiah Sundermeir | Physio