From The Rugby Paper · The Rugby Paper Team · · 1m 40s
Watch out for the Eagles
USA women's rugby team rising as a force after WXV series success.
In brief
USA women's rugby team rising as a force after WXV series success. USA women's rugby team is regaining prominence with strong forward play and a new coaching strategy after inconsistent performances in the last decade. Originally reported by The Rugby Paper.
WXV series success
The USA women's rugby team has won three consecutive matches after inconsistent performances in the last decade.
Historic World Cup presence
The Eagles were World Cup winners in 1991 and finalists in 1994 and 1998 before declining in the 2000s.
New coaching strategy
Jack Hanratty, former Canadian Olympic Sevens coach, became head coach after the 2025 World Cup.
Sevens focus challenges
Relying on Sevens players has led to defensive weaknesses and backfield issues in fifteens rugby.
Forward dominance
The USA's pack has scored 11 of 14 tries in the last three matches, with forwards driving the team's success.
Key players
Ilona Maher, Hope Rogers, Keia Mae Sagapolu Sanele, and Freda Tafuna are leading the team's performance.
Captaincy
Erica Jarrell-Searcy, a viral star from last year's World Cup, leads the team with understated confidence.
Upcoming challenge
The USA faces England in a potential rematch of their 2017 semi-final after beating Ireland and Wales.
Domestic growth
Women's Elite Rugby (WER) is entering its third season as a potential feeder for the national team.
Collegiate system
The collegiate system continues to produce top international players through Title IX.
Future potential
The USA could return to the top of women's rugby after three decades of inconsistency.
Next match
The Eagles will face England in October after beating Wales and Italy in WXV.
The headline
USA women's rugby team is regaining prominence with strong forward play and a new coaching strategy after inconsistent performances in the last decade.
