RFCLA name team for historic CaliCup and USA Test Double Header
RFCLA has named its strongest squad yet for what is set to be the most significant match in club history-Saturday's highly anticipated Cali Cup showdown against the San Diego Legion.
The blockbuster double-header at UCLA's Wallis Annenberg Stadium will also feature the USA Women's Eagles in their 2025 season opener against Japan.
Limited tickets for the RFCLA and USA Rugby Double this Saturday here.
After a challenging midweek fixture in Quincy against the New England Free Jacks, the LA squad returns home for their second match in just five days. With ticket sales approaching full capacity, the Club is expected to announce a sellout in the lead-up to Saturday's festival of rugby.
With captain Jason Damm unavailable due to a family wedding, Tim Anstee shifts into the lock position, and veteran center Billy Meakes will lead the side as captain. The front row remains unchanged, while Jurie Van Vuuren and Ben Houston both return to the starting pack.
In the backline, key playmakers Gonzalo Bertranou, Christian Lealiifano, Andrew Coe, and Reece Macdonald rejoin the run-on team, with Nick Chan moving to the No. 13 jersey.
Following the men's match at 3:00 PM, the USA Women's Eagles will take the field against Japan at 5:30 PM, kicking off their international calendar in front of what promises to be an electric LA crowd.
Full release on the USA Women's match here.
Limited tickets for the RFCLA and USA Rugby Double this Saturday here.
RFCLA Head Coach Stephen Hoiles emphasized the magnitude of the match and what it represents for the Club, the city, and the rivalry with San Diego.
"The Cali Cup means a lot to this organization-especially to the players," said Hoiles.
"We made some changes last week, and a few players really stepped up. They've earned their spots. It's great to have Christian, Billy, and Coey returning-they're fresh, and they'll make an impact."
"This match means as much to the Legion as it does to us, so we need to be sharp across the park."
"USA Rugby and our RFCLA commercial team have done an incredible job putting this event together. There's a real buzz around it, and I encourage all sports fans to come out and support both teams. It'll be a great day of rugby."
Tickets are extremely limited, with a full house expected. A small number remain available for purchase online or at the gate (subject to availability).
For Match Day Info, visit our Know Before You Go page for everything you need.
Limited tickets for the RFCLA and USA Rugby Double this Saturday here.
RFCLA take to play San Diego Legion, Saturday, April 26 3:00 PM PT at Wallis Annenberg Stadium, UCLA
- Alessandro Heaney
- Benjamin Sugars
- Maliu Niuafe
- Timothy Anstee
- Jurie Van Vuuren
- Semi Kunabuli
- Edward Timpson
- Benjamin Houston
- Gonzalo Bertranou
- Christian Leali'ifano
- Andrew Coe
- William Meakes
- Nicholas Chan
- Rory Van Vugt
- Reece MacDonald
- Michelangelo Sosene-Feagai
- Franco Van den Berg
- Justus Tavai
- Mikaea Wynyard
- Matthew Heaton
- Benjamin Strang
- Tasman Smith
- Seth Purdey
USA Women's Eagles Lineup - vs Japan, Saturday, April 26 at 5:30 PM PT at Wallis Annenberg Stadium, UCLA
- Hope Rogers
- Kathryn Treder
- Keia Mae Sagapolu
- Hallie Taufoou
- Erica Jarrell
- Tahlia Brody
- Kate Zackary (C)
- Rachel Johnson (VC)
- Olivia Ortiz
- McKenzie Hawkins (VC)
- Erica Coulibaly*
- Alev Kelter
- Emily Henrich
- Cheta Emba (Boston Banshees)
- Bulou Mataitoga
- Paige Stathopoulos
- Maya Learned
- Charli Jacoby
- Rachel Ehrecke
- Kapoina Bailey*
- Cass Bargell
- Kristin Bitter
- Tess Feury
*Denotes Debut
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Limited tickets for the RFCLA and USA Rugby Double this Saturday here.
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