The Mid-Atlantic Regional Cup Tournament (RCT) in Pittsburgh is hosting eight girls all-star teams – easily the largest girls' field of any RCT in the country. Some of that has to do with its location, as Founders Field is driving distance for many East Coast and Midwest teams. Wisconsin in particular is taking advantage of its proximity to the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest RCTs, sending varsity teams to both – a first for the active league.

The league held two tryouts after the state 7s championship (which Brookfield won, read more), and all nine teams were represented. The rosters between the two events will alter slightly, as a group of seniors had graduation conflicts this weekend but will be available for the June 27-28 event in Rockford, Ill. The state's top two teams - Divine Savior Holy Angels and Catholic Memorial - do not overwhelm the roster, either. DSHA has made two trips to Pennsylvania (girls high school nationals in Pittsburgh and High School Challenge in Chester) in the previous six weeks, and the Crusaders endured injuries to key players.

“The smaller group going to Pittsburgh is bolstered by a talented sophomore class,” Wisconsin Girls All Star coach Jeff Noe explained. “Megan Bird at fullback has already seen a lot of select side play at Vegas and Atlanta in 7s. She will be led by senior center Cassie Schultz in the backline. The young pack will try to keep up with senior Alexia Prusheik on what looks to be a very warm weekend in Pittsburgh.”

Both senior leaders have committed to successful collegiate programs; Schultz is heading to DII power Winona State, and Prusheik will become a Lady Lion at Lindenwood in the fall.

The young Wisconsin team will be joined by fellow Midwest teams from Ohio (Celtics) and Indiana, and test itself against very good teams from Virginia, Empire (New Jersey/New York City), Upstate New York, and Maryland.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to get out of the Midwest and play some new opponents in Pennsylvania,” Noe said.

The following weekend will see the inclusion of some talented freshmen – as well as the seniors – on both JV and varsity teams in Rockford. The Midwest tournament is less dense, drawing Ohio's JV side (Erie Renegades) and Illinois, in addition to Wisconsin.

For all of the RCT rosters, click here (updated as rosters are made available).