The US men's and women's rugby teams will play on America's 250th birthday, the Fourth of July, seeking wins and momentum. The men face Portugal in Denver in the World Rugby Nations Cup, while the women take on South Africa in Johannesburg.
Women's Team Excited for Ellis Park
Captain Georgie Perris-Redding, a dual national with a Manchester accent born in Detroit, expressed pride in her group. 'We've been talking about it all week. Honestly, we're trying to find a way to get some fireworks. That's not looking too likely to me right now, but growing the game is what massively drives this group as well, and I think being able to do that on such an occasion at Ellis Park is arguably once-in-a-lifetime,' she said.
Coach Jack Hanratty, Irish but appreciative of the occasion, noted flanker Kate Zackary will earn her 50th cap. 'Kate's only the third Eagle to do it. We were joking about this a while ago. Bella Vogel got her first cap [aged 19] against New Zealand, and Hann Humphreys got their first cap against New Zealand. So we're kind of thinking that in five years they could have 50,' Hanratty said.
Men's Team Focus on Diversity and Heritage
Men's coach Scott Lawrence emphasized the team's diversity, including a talk from US Air Force Academy cadets and flag-folding. 'The Eagles are, have been and always will be a representation of the diverse nature of our country. You don't see that in a lot of other countries. The way our team comes together is much different. It looks like any classroom in the United States,' Lawrence said.
Lawrence highlighted young back Perry Mayo, who plays for Nevers in Pro D2 and qualifies through American heritage. 'He's been good, he's got X Factor. The French, they play differently. It's always good to have another left foot in the back line in terms of the kicking game, and he gives us versatility,' Lawrence added.
Challenges Ahead for Both Teams
Portugal denied the US a spot at the 2023 World Cup with a draw in Dubai. Since then, Portugal has rebuilt, beating Georgia for the Rugby Europe Championship crown. Lawrence acknowledged the challenge: 'They followed a proven recipe in our division, which is time together domestically, a focused team that has all the best internationals.'
The US men's team relies on Europe-based pros like Jack Iscaro, a loosehead prop for Stade Français in the Top 14. Fly-half AJ MacGinty of Bristol is still out with injury. After Denver, the Eagles face Zimbabwe and Spain in North Carolina.
The women's team, ranked eighth in the world, faces South Africa (10th). Hanratty expects a physical game and has chosen an experienced pack. The US women did not make the World Cup knockouts last year, while South Africa did.
