Pregame at Stampede 7s |
While we did travel lightly to Canada, our men embraced the "scrappy underdog" mentality, especially representing the USA with our first two pool play games on the 4th of July, going 3-1-1 at the tournament with an average of 4 tries scored per game. We advanced easily from pool play, came from behind in the semifinal to defeat a British Military Police side 19-14, and made the Men's Premier Final. The finals pitted the Stars against a Fijian side rumored to have national team players on its roster. 10 minute halves proved a bit too much for us to handle without the depth the other teams enjoyed, but this is a problem that easily solved in recruiting for our future tours!
One of our men that was on board from day one is Florida Atlantic University Men's Rugby player Matt Coore. He was a huge impact player for our program that should be a part of our rosters for a long time coming.
On the Pitch for FAU |
In terms of player development, there is nothing more we could have asked for. Had their been a "Most Improved Player" award for the trip, he'd have the title. Matt's future is bright with many more tours and much more rugby to come. His potential has just barely been tapped and his aspirations to reach higher levels in this game should soon be realized.
Here's his story in his words:
More Action for FAU Men's Rugby |
I started for the 15s team my freshman year of fall and spring. My performance that rookie season led to a nomination for the Florida South Select Side 15s by former FAU coach Richard Jackson and Head coach of the Boca Bucs: Frank Tito.
I started playing 7s the Summer of 2013 and I have had a mutual love for both 15s and 7s. Currently I am playing with FAU for the summer sevens season. I give my all to bring our side to victory with countless
number of hours in the gym.
Conditioning with Daru Fitness & Performance |
When it comes time to get on the pitch,
fatigue becomes nothing but an obstacle to overcome. I do all my training
at Daru Fitness & Performance which has gave me a mental edge. I
have been given the chance to play in my first international tournament
by the Stars Rugby 7s team and I cannot wait to show how Rugby in
Florida is done!
** Matt's tour update: The tour for Stampedes Sevens brought some tough matches. Both our womens' and men side put in some nice work. Making it up to 2nd in the tournament; facing back-to-back Fijian sides that had some great skill. Met a cool group of ruggers from Stars sides! Pretty cool stories were shared. I learned different techniques and views of the 7s game. I hope for more tours to come with this program. Next stop, Australia**
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