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New Women’s Eagles coach Emilie Bydwell has made a shock decision to drop captain Abby Gustaitis ahead of the trip to Spain next week. In fact Gustaitis has been unceremoniously cut from the residential squad completely according to her statement on social media.
“I was cut from the USA 7’s team after a decade of working to achieve my absolute best. I showed up every day set on performing at my best, intent on lifting my teammates up, determined to support them on and off the pitch. I poured my heart and soul into our team.
“I am absolutely shattered that my dream ended so unexpectedly. Yet I am so thankful for this sport, who it shaped me to be, and everything it has given me. My teammates are my family and I am grateful for each and every one of them.”
Gustaitis, 30, was a key figure among the forwards and co-captain of the team at the Olympic Games in Tokyo. The captaincy is now handed over to Lauren Doyle, with Alena Olsen named as vice captain.
Bydwell has made seven changes in all from the squad that traveled to Dubai. Alev Kelter has signed with Exeter Chiefs while veteran Joanne Fa’avesi is left out along with youngsters Rachel Strasdas, Lote Tausinga, and Summer Harris-Jones. Sui Aa’u is ruled out due to injury.
Returning to the squad after missing out on Dubai are Kayla Canett, Cheta Emba, Nicole Heavirland, Kristi Kirshe, and Naya Tapper. Set to make their World Series debuts are Mata Hingano and Sarah Levy.
WOMEN’S EAGLES SEVENS
Kayla Canett, Lauren Doyle (capt.), Cheta Emba, Jazmine Gray, Nicole Heavirland, Mata Hingano, Kristi Kirshe, Sarah Levy, Ilona Maher, Alena Olsen, Alex Sedrick, Naya Tapper, Kris Thomas
