GRR: SVNS
Round 2 for the USA women is about momentum.
The entire program, of course, has momentum, and not just because Ilona Maher did so well on Dancing with the Stars. Maher, of course, along with her Bronze-Medal-Winning teammates have sparked a renewed interest in the game among young women, and while that measurement is anecdotal, it’s consistent and we’re inclined to believe it.
Round One in the SVNS World Series is done and we're already seeing some changes in how the Series is conducted.
More on that a bit later, but first, let's look at where we stand.
The USA Men’steam ended their Dubai weekend winless and in last place.
This is a new team with a new coach and they played like it, showing ability, and pushing their opposition, but they were unable to put in a full 14 minutes. This wasn't for lack of effort, it was mostly for lack of experience.
The new-look USA women's 7s team took 5th in Dubai and finished 3-2, losing twice to France but overall showing a ton of potential.
After winning their pool but losing to France 14-5 on Day One, the Eagles faced France again in the quarterfinals on Day Two. They lost again, but worse, 38-12.
USA vs FranceThe first half against France was a bit of a disaster.
It's important to remember that the USA men's 7s team is not only on a rebuilding course, but is rebuilding off a group that was on a rebuilding course.