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USA Rugby coming to Madison

Jane Havsy
@dailyrecordspts

The United States men’s national rugby team will be at Drew University next week. The Eagles will be training in Madison prior to their friendly against Ireland on June 10 at Red Bull Arena, the opening of a summer series.

These teams have not faced off since June 2013 when Ireland defeated the Eagles, 15-12, in Houston. Both Ireland and the United States were part of “rugby weekend” in November, which drew more than 80,000 fans to Chicago.

“This match will not only give our men a world-class opponent as we prepare for the road ahead, but they’re also clearly a fan favorite in the United States,” USA Rugby CEO Dan Payne said in a press release. “With 35 million Americans claiming Irish-American heritage in our country, this match will be a strong fit on all levels.”

Team USA is scheduled to arrive at Drew Wednesday. The Eagles are scheduled to have morning and afternoon training sessions a day on June 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, 12 and 13.

Some of the practices will be open to the public. USA Rugby is offering opportunities to shadow the coaching staff. Former Eagles scrum half will host a skills clinic for his position at Drew on June 10.

“We are thrilled the United States national team has chosen Drew for its training,” Drew Director of Athletics Jason Fein said in a statement. “We were able to offer the Eagles the facilities and proximity they were looking for to compete on the world stage. Drew has a rich tradition in rugby, with a strong and active alumni base, so the Eagles should feel right at home.”

Click here for more information from USA Rugby.