Americas Rugby News Rugby news from across the Americas!
Maka Unufe will make a long-awaited return for the Men’s Eagles when they start their 2019-2020 campaign in Dubai next weekend. The star center missed the entirety of the 2018-2019 season while serving a 14-month suspension handed out after testing positive for heptaminol, a banned substance that was later found to be an unmarked contaminant in a dietary supplement. World Rugby’s strict zero-tolerance policy meant that Unufe was forced to sit out despite the governing body agreeing that the violation was unintentional.
The return of one of their top performers is a boost to the side who will be without Martin Iosefo and vice-captain Ben Pinkelman, both of whom are being rested after participating in the Rugby World Cup. Folau Niua is also absent as he continues his rehabilitation from a nasty leg break suffered in Paris at the end of last season.
Rugby ATL signing Harley Wheeler could make his World Sevens debut, the only uncapped player in the 13-man squad. Ben Broselle and Naima Fuala’au are each headed to their fourth tournament, with Joe Schroeder set to push into double-digits. Carlin Isles is the most-capped player in the group with 51. Danny Barrett and captain Madison Hughes are next at 48 and 47 stops on the HSBC circuit respectively.
The USA finished last season ranked 2nd and are aiming not just for their first ever overall Series title but also Olympic glory. They will compete against Ireland, Scotland, and Australia in Pool B at Dubai. The three-day tournament begins on December 5. A live broadcast will be available on NBC Sports Gold.
USA MEN’S EAGLES SEVENS
Perry Barker, Danny Barrett, Ben Broselle, Maceo Brown, Naima Fuala’au, Madison Hughes (capt.), Carlin Isles, Matai Leuta, Joe Schroeder, Stephen Tomasin, Maka Unufe, Harley Wheeler, Kevon Williams
