Women’s Eagles named for first stop on World Sevens Series

Emilie Bydwell has named her first Women’s Eagles squad for the 2022-23 World Sevens Series. The team will open the seven-stop campaign, which doubles as an Olympic Qualifier, in Dubai next weekend.

All but one of the 12 players who finished 4th at the World Cup in Cape Town are included. The only absentee is captain Lauren Doyle, who misses out on Dubai with injury. Naya Tapper steps into the leadership role while Doyle recovers.

Recalled to the squad after missing out in September are Alex Sedrick and Stephanie Rovetti. Meanwhile Sam Sullivan is set to make her World Series debut, earning selection to the World Cup despite not having any previous experience on the circuit.

The two-day tournament begins on December 2. Joining the USA in Pool A are Australia, China, and North American rivals Canada. The Eagles finished 6th on the 2021-22 Series and are aiming for a top-four finish this season to secure automatic qualification for Paris 2024.

WOMEN’S EAGLES 7s
Kayla Canett, Cheta Emba, Joanne Fa’avesi, Jaz Gray, Nicole Heavirland, Kristi Kirshe, Ilona Maher, Alena Olsen, Stephanie Rovetti, Alex Sedrick, Sam Sullivan, Naya Tapper (capt.), Kris Thomas