USA Women’s Rugby Team Named For Italy Match

from USAWomensRugby.org:

ROME, Italy — The roster that will be representing the Women’s Eagles in its first ever match against Italy has been released. Head coach Pete Steinberg named the fifteen starters and eight reserves that will step onto the pitch Sunday (Nov. 18) at 3 PM (9 AM EST) against the Italians following Friday evening’s practice.

The roster, as presented by official tour sponsor Rugby Athletic, reveals the anticipation of a physical contest.

“We know Italy will be a physical test and we are looking forward to that test,” said Steinberg following Friday mornings practice.

Prop Jamie Burke has been selected as the game captain. With the appearance, Burke adds yet another cap to her collection (33) in efforts to become the most capped Women’s Eagle in USA history.

“It is an honor to captain the first USA side to play Italy,” mentioned Burke. “It is exciting to see what this team can do as we move forward towards the 2014 World Cup.”

Sadie Anderson has been named the vice-captain at flyhalf.

The Women’s Eagles have been diligently preparing for Sunday’s match, holding five practice sessions over the initial three days of the tour. A walk-through on Saturday will conclude all pre-match preparations.

“We have had some good practices and I am excited to see what the team can do,” said Steinberg.

The match will be the first ever against Italy as well as the initial match for the European tour.

Kimber Rozier will be earning her first cap with the start at fullback. Katy Augustyn, Sarah Wilson, Mel Denham, Jennifer Lui, and Valerie Griffeth have been named as reserves and will also be looking to make their first international appearance.
Kickoff is slated for 3 PM (9 AM EST) at CPO Acqua Acetosa.

Get updates on scores and the ful Europe Tour here.

USA vs Italy | CPO Acqua Acesto | Rome, Italy
Sarah Chobot
Kittery Wagner
Jamie Burke (C)
Stacey Bridges
Sharon Blaney
Shaina Turley
Lynelle Kugler
Kate Daley
Caroline White
Sadie Anderson
San Juanita Moreno
Samantha Pankey
Amy Daniels
Ashley Kmiecik
Kimber Rozier
Katy Augustyn
Sarah Wilson
Naima Reddick
Rose Miesner
Mel Denham
Jennifer Lui
Hannah Stolba
Valerie Griffeth