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Former captain Kevin Swiryn has been handed a recall to the Eagles Sevens by head coach Michael Friday after a five year self-imposed absence from the team. The veteran midfielder, a month shy of his 31st birthday, announced his retirement from rugby after an injury-plagued season with Agen in 2011-12. He returned to domestic club action with Seattle in late 2013, and after two seasons showing excellent from at the National Club Championships, he re-joined the national training camp this fall.
Swiryn adds experience do the side that travels to Dubai and Cape Town without injured duo Danny Barrett and Martin Iosefo, as well as key forward Andrew Durutalo, who has reportedly signed a pro contract overseas. Durutalo’s destination has yet to be confirmed but it’s speculated that he could be joining up with the new Japanese Super Rugby franchise – the Sunwolves.
Other additions to the squad are former Edinburgh winger Brett Thompson and Army flyhalf Will Holder, both of whom have previous experience on the circuit. Dynamic utility Matai Leuta is also included after impressing with his power and pace in the second half of last season.
The 2015-16 HSBC World Sevens Series kicks off in Dubai on December 4, with the Cape Town leg taking place a week later on December 12. The Eagles have already qualified for the 2016 Olympic Sevens.
USA EAGLES SEVENS
Nate Augspurger, Perry Baker, Garrett Bender, Will Holder, Madison Hughes (capt.), Carlin Isles, Mataiyasi Leuta, Folau Niua, Kevin Swiryn, Zack Test, Brett Thompson, Maka Unufe
Head Coach: Michael Friday
Assistant Coach: Chris Brown
