Stars vs. Stripes Games thrill crowd at University of Northern Colorado

from USA Rugby:

GREELEY, Colo. – The first-ever USA Rugby High School All-American Stars vs. Stripes Camp culminated with two enthralling matches Saturday at the University of Northern Colorado. The boys and girls Stripes team both came away with win against their Stars counterparts, but both matches could have gone either way.

The Boys Stars began on the front foot in the day’s opening match, but a flurry of tries at the end of the first half – including one with no time remaining – gave Stripes a 31-24 halftime lead. Though Stars scored first in the second half to get back into the game, Stripes extended their lead and held on for a 50-34 win.

The Girls Stars began much the same way in the second match by taking a 17-10 lead at the half. Stripes came back fighting in the second half, though, and were able to see off Stars – who scored the final try of the match – 39-29.

“It was an absolutely tremendous performance by all four teams,” USA Rugby High Performance Player Development Manager Luke Gross said. “The heart and the attitude that carried over from training was amazing in the games. I’m proud of all of the kids. I think everyone – coaches, USA Rugby and University of Northern Colorado staff included – has left revitalized with the outlook of the player development pathway and youth rugby in America.”

From the players’ arrival to University of Northern Colorado, bus drivers to cafeteria workers all complimented the maturity and demeanor of the High School All-Americans. Some will leave camp with harnessed skills to take back to their high school teams while others will make the next step into the college game.