USA Test Matches in Northeast & California for 2000

(Berkeley, CA) 13 March, 2000 -- Determined to showcase rugby across the country, the USA plays two international matches in New Hampshire and one in Northern California this summer.

The Epson Cup match against Canada on June 3 and the USA-Ireland test on June 10 will both be played in Manchester, New Hampshire, at Singer Family Park.

The Eagles then head back to San Francisco's Boxer Stadium on July 15 to host Samoa.

The Manchester venue is less than one hour's drive from downtown Boston, and the Eagles expect a sell-out for the USA-Ireland match. "The buzz is already building," said national team general manager Jack Clark. "Singer Family Park is accessible to a large number of American rugby supporters and close to a large contingent of Irish-Americans.

"Ticket prices are affordable, a quality curtain raiser is planned and Duncan Hall and his boys want another crack at Ireland. It will be a great rugby day."

The week prior, USA Rugby will combine the Canada match with the men's Division 1 Club Championships. Spectators will see the championship semi-finals and then the test match on the Saturday, and Singer Family Park will also host Sunday's club finals.

"It is a chance to see the best of club rugby and international competition in one place at one time," noted Clark. For the club sides, the shared venue means the chance to play in front of a large crowd. The Amoskeag Rugby Club will be the local host of both events, working with the national team on event management and promotions.

After the two game stand in Manchester, the Eagles have a short break before heading overseas for more Epson Cup action in early July. They fly home to host Samoa at the now familiar Boxer Stadium in San Francisco's Balboa Park on July 15.

The stadium saw the Eagles beat both Tonga and Fiji in 1999's Epson Cup, and the USA will look to extend the win streak against the potent Samoan side. In one of the Epson Cup Pacific Rim's unheralded performances, the Eagles last year battled to a 27-20 defeat in Samoa.

Supporters can find more information and tickets at 1-877-RUGBY59 (784-2959) or www.usa-eagles.org.

© USA National Rugby Team
Kurt Oeler, Media Relations
Hudson Rugby Fieldhouse
Berkeley, California 94720 4426
phone 510.643.1971 / fax 510.643.2192