USA Women’s Sevens Eagles Soar to Bronze in Vancouver: A Turning Point for American Rugby
The USA Women’s Sevens Eagles have secured a hard-fought bronze medal at the Vancouver SVNS tournament, marking a significant step forward after a series of near misses. This victory over France signals a potential turning point for the team, building momentum as they prepare for the HSBC SVNS New York City stop and the upcoming World Championship.
Dominating Performances and Key Players
The Eagles began their Vancouver campaign with a commanding 40-7 win against the host nation, Canada. Su Adegoke led the charge with a hat trick, showcasing her speed and finishing ability. Kristi Kirshe and Autumn Czaplicki also contributed tries, demonstrating the team’s attacking depth. Further wins against Fiji (26-19) highlighted the resilience of players like Sammy Sullivan and Sarah Levy, who consistently stepped up with crucial scores.
Despite a challenging loss to Australia (7-22) and a narrow defeat against New Zealand in the Cup Semi-Final (12-19), the team demonstrated grit and determination. Kaylen Thomas and Sarah Levy were instrumental in keeping the matches competitive.
Bronze Medal Victory: A Testament to Teamwork
The bronze medal match against France was a thrilling encounter. Ariana Ramsey opened the scoring for the USA, but France quickly responded. A strategic performance from Sammy Sullivan leveled the score, and a powerful display from Kaylen Thomas, securing two tries, ultimately sealed the 35-21 victory. This win broke a streak of fourth-place finishes and delivered on the team’s target of reaching the podium.
Looking Ahead: New York City and the World Championship
The USA Women’s Sevens Eagles now turn their attention to the HSBC SVNS New York City, offering American fans a chance to witness the team’s progress firsthand. Tickets are available at https://sitickets.com/group/team/hsbc-svns-new-york, and the action will be live-streamed on Paramount+. Following New York, the team will compete in the HSBC SVNS World Championship, with stops in Hong Kong, Valladolid, and Bordeaux.
Meet the Eagles: Vancouver Roster
The Vancouver roster included:
- Ariana Ramsey (19 Sevens Caps)
- Erica Coulibaly (5 Sevens Caps)
- Tahna Wilfley (5 Sevens Caps)
- Kristi Kirshe (C) (35 Sevens Caps)
- Sarah Levy (18 Sevens Caps)
- Rachel Strasdas (12 Sevens Caps)
- Kaylen Thomas (9 Sevens Caps)
- Sammy Sullivan (20 Sevens Caps)
- Su Adegoke (12 Sevens Caps)
- Ashley Cowdrey (6 Sevens Caps)
- Hann Humphreys (6 Sevens Caps)
- Nalu Liufau* (2 Sevens Caps) – Traveling Reserve
- Autumn Czaplicki (7 Sevens Caps)
Coaching and Support Staff
The team is guided by a dedicated coaching and support staff, including:
- Emilie Bydwell (Head Coach)
- Tony Roques (Assistant Coach)
- Charlie Purdon (Technical & IDP Skills Coach)
- Ben Pinkelman (Support Coach)
- Lauren Barber (Performance Analyst)
- Trey Ford (Head of Athletic Performance)
- Ashley Morataya (Assistant S&C)
- Nicole Titmas (Head of Athlete Health & Wellness – 7s / Women’s 7s Head ATC)
- Meghan Chambers (Rehab Specialist)
- Jackie Rodriguez (Athletic Trainer)
- Jacque Scaramella (Dietician)
- Peter Haberl (Sport Psychologist)
- Liz Strohecker (Head of High Performance Operations – 7s)
- Maria Adams (High Performance Operations Coordinator – 7s)
HSBC SVNS Series Results to Date
Here’s a look at the USA Women’s Sevens Eagles’ performance in the 2025-2026 HSBC SVNS Series so far:
- Dubai: 5th Place
- Cape Town: 4th Place
- Singapore: 4th Place
- Perth: 4th Place
- Vancouver: 3rd Place
FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the HSBC SVNS New York City tournament?
A: Live streaming will be available on Paramount+.
Q: How can I purchase tickets for the New York City event?
A: Tickets can be purchased at https://sitickets.com/group/team/hsbc-svns-new-york.
Q: Who is the head coach of the USA Women’s Sevens Eagles?
A: Emilie Bydwell is the Head Coach.
Did you know? Kristi Kirshe is the most capped player on the current USA Women’s Sevens Eagles roster, with 35 appearances.
Stay tuned for more updates on the USA Women’s Sevens Eagles as they continue their journey through the HSBC SVNS Series and prepare for the World Championship. Follow their progress and cheer them on to further success!
