The US men's and women's rugby teams are set to play on America's 250th birthday, Saturday, July 4th. The men's Eagles face Portugal in Denver at the World Rugby Nations Cup, while the women take on South Africa in Johannesburg.
Women's Team: Aiming for Fireworks at Ellis Park
Women's captain Georgie Perris-Redding, a dual national born in Detroit, expressed pride in her team's passion for representing the US. 'We've been talking about it all week. Honestly, we're trying to find a way to get some fireworks,' she said. 'Growing the game is what massively drives this group, and being able to do that on such an occasion at Ellis Park is arguably once-in-a-lifetime.'
Coach Jack Hanratty, Irish by nationality, acknowledged the significance of playing at Ellis Park, where the 1995 Rugby World Cup final was held. Flanker Kate Zackary is set to earn her 50th cap, becoming only the third US woman to reach that milestone. 'It's a real compliment to the respect that the athletes have,' Hanratty said. 'Hopefully this program can continue to grow with leaders like that.'
Men's Team: Embracing Diversity and Tough Challenges
Men's coach Scott Lawrence emphasized the importance of recognizing the diversity of the US team. 'The Eagles are, have been and always will be a representation of the diverse nature of our country,' he said. The team participated in sessions with US Air Force Academy cadets, including competitive flag-folding.
Lawrence highlighted the value of players like Perry Mayo, who plays for Nevers in Pro D2 and brings versatility. 'He's got X Factor,' Lawrence said. 'He offers a bit of messiness that we've needed.'
The men face a tough opponent in Portugal, who denied the US a spot at the 2023 World Cup. Portugal recently won the Rugby Europe Championship, beating Georgia. Lawrence noted the challenge: 'They followed a proven recipe: time together domestically, a focused team with all the best internationals.'
Looking Ahead
After Denver, the Eagles travel to North Carolina to play Zimbabwe and Spain. Lawrence acknowledged the difficulty of the July window due to European schedules. 'You have to know your set piece, your kicking game—the basics,' he said. 'Then you have to trust the talent.'
The women's match against South Africa is a double-header with the Springbok men facing England. South Africa ranks 10th in the world, two places behind the US. Hanratty expects a physical game and has selected an experienced pack.
