Nothing has been disclosed, except your eagerness to make assumptions. Realist made the bigot and raciest comments – not me. But I agree with him. And I’m not Seddon – but you attacked him, as a foreigner, with a vengeance. Without hesitation – and gave comments about his pedigree. Just like you guys did with Solomans, and do with Thorburn and Melville. It seems anyone foreign is open to discrimination. I’ve heard of a club team who won’t play at a RSL club – because of the foreign influence there. What’s wrong with foreigners? They bring in new ideas, sometimes funding and many players. Many foreigners have immigrated to the USA. It’s their right. Some have become citizens. A South African support group in Atlanta claimed to have 90,000 members in the state of Georgia. When USA players what higher level of rugby – they have to go overseas. They have to go to the foreigners, cap in hand and sell their wares, with the return being personal development at an advanced rate. I don’t care what ya’ll are mumbling about. You can slam each other with a handbag until the cows come home – for all I care. What I’m responding to, is the anti establishment comments, about USA Rugby regressing!!! And I think this blog needs to give a lot more credit to the players and the administrators. USAR is moving forward. I’m satisfied with the progress. The current establishment is doing a much better job than the previous administration.

I watched The Da Vinci Code, Seems to state that white hoods can be worn by Spanish Monks for religious purposes! One should be very careful before assuming anything. Firstly, Nigel Melville is a former Captain for England. He’s a proven top class international player, and he has been involved in some very successful programs in the UK. Considering the old BOD, We’re bloody lucky to have him working for us. And WTH do you think you are, to call him into question. He should be considered, one of our newest and finest jewels. When his contract comes up for renewal, I hope he signs back on. Because he’s worth his weight in gold. Peter Thorburn is one of the most respected coaches in New Zealand and the world BTW. He is also a former All Black selector and coach of the All Black Colts. He was the first coach of the North Harbor side – current Ranfurley Shield holders. Again WTH do you think you are, to question his ability and professionalism. You should be ashamed. And embarrassed. The only team Billups ever coached on his own, as head coach, before the Eagles – was the All Americans for 1 season. And they lost. And that job was gifted to him. The sole reason why we are not advancing on Canada, and it seems like they are pulling away. Is there was a black hole in player development 10 years ago. The harsh facts are, that the game in this country was controlled in a different way. Many believe it was slanted toward Cal. As long as I’ve been reading websites about rugby in the USA – there has always been a question on a few selections. Especially when a lot seemed to come from one College program. The rest of the country starved. And there was no coaching development of anything new. It was the same old level system – where most of the courses turned into heated discussions between coaches with over active ego’s. Thorburn, Melville and Roberts have single handedly been responsible for having the BLOODY ALL BLACK coaches here – you ungrateful SOB’s. You should start watching the game in depth before you under rate the Eagles performance. Don’t be too quick to turn your noses up at the narrow loss to Scotland. That was a very good Scotland side – almost the best they could put out, on the day. Take a real close look at those scrums and mauling – it’s like the All Blacks folks. That’s progress right there. If we suddenly inject Parker, Gross, Schubert, Erskine, Hercus and Eloff to the mix – That’s a pretty good number of Caps right there. And they will be come RWC time. The Eagles players really believe in themselves and the new coaching techniques – to stab the establishment that bought it in. Is like a stab in the heart to the players. Ya’ll can’t see the forest for the trees. We now have an under 17 program, that is currently expanding. We have a top level group of under 19’s that can now stay together for one more season – Go Salty, must be luck of the Irish. We have a top level WNT and that program is also expanding. We have the All Americans – NC. And we have a developing MNT. Off the field, we have new sponsors, new website, open selection process, coaching development – at a much higher level, and an elite group of USA coaches. What else do some of you people want?

I agree with Ed, but he forgot to add #4 - Tom Billups. If other clubs and college programs provided the level of coaching, offered by Cal - then the Eagles would be out looking for a Semi spot, come September/October. But other programs simply don't. Some are getting close, with new pitches - some are working hard behind the scences to develop a good solid club base with facilities. It just takes more time. Cal is one of the rugby oldest clubs in the world 'Still playing' status. Many may have started a long time ago - but not many have gone the distance. Cal has. And the string of national championships didn't just happen. That seed was planted long ago. Jack Clark deserves alot of the credit. Alot more goes to the Cal Alumni who had the foresight to invest in rugby. And to continue thier support throuh the years. Cal supporters don't turn on and off like a faucet. They go on, and stay on for life. I've never met a Cal Alum who hasn't been prouder of the fact he played rugby at Cal. If we all followed the 'Jack Clark and Cal' style of program and coaching - rugby in this country would be 99% better off. The only thing stopping us - is us!

Eagles better not go 0-3 again!

X factors right. I hear theres a couple of homeless kids in Ryde, Nebraska that are looking for a game. The Eagles 7's program hasn't won a championship point in over 3 years. I've never believed that the international areana is the place to blood new players. The best prepared, the fittest we've been - and we lose to Portugal? I didn't even know Portugal even played rugby! The eyes are firmly fixed on Caravelli - better get a result soon Al, or it's Bye Bye.

Back to the original post - Cal Maritime. In case anyone was interested, San Francisco Golden Gate under 23's put a thumping on Cal Maritime at the weekend. CAL Maritime played some very good rugby in patches, but the SFGG squad was to fit, too fast and too skillfull - Cal Maritime were probably bigger. Both teams performed a "Haka" of sorts: SFGG with "Gate, Gate, Gate" and Cal Maritime with some Shakespeare.

I see the same thing Doug. Thorburn has definately steadied the ship - as was his mission. He deserves to take the side to the RWC, and he's the incumbent. Right now - he has the contacts and knowledge on all the top players. He's a professional Rugby coach - by now, he'll have his side almost nailed down. And it'd take a massive impact on the rugby scene to break into his top 25 players.

What a load.... You're wrong - on alot of points. But to save time - I can't be bothered repeating it. I can't believe you would disrespect 2 of the most successfull coaches in American Rugby History. I don't care what anyone says - a fact is a fact. And the Cal program is the most successfull rugby model in the USA today. And the coach that has cemented that - is Jack Clark. He was also a successfull Eagles coach - of a tier 2/3 country. The game progressed - and Tom Billups took over. He faced alot of rubbish from within - but he was successfull too. And with a Tier 2 country. The USA's not Wales, or Ireland, or South Africa - it's the USA. Rugby is a fringe sport at best in this country. We do our best. Don't go around sacking it, because alot of good people put alot of time and effort into doing the best they can. Maybe it's not stellar - but far better to have tried and failed, than too have never tried at all. I know alot of former Eagles. Even one who scored against the All Blacks - you'd never meet a prouder American Rugby player.

No Foriegners? Ok - if that's what you think is best, lets do it. No Foriegners at all. No Foriegn players, and while we're at it, lets ban all foriegn coaches too - what do they know, that we Americans don't? And lets ban all American players from playing overseas too. You can't have your cake and eat it too.

I think the USA would have done better under Tom Billup's coaching - but not for the reasons, you ask the question. And the reason has some comparison with the topic above. Tom Billups resigned over issues that involved integrity - but the base problem was lack of funds to run the programs that he planned would have at least matched the Canadian Effort. But there was a budget cap and then it was cut in half. If Billups had been provided with the funds to run his programs, we would have seen a much better mix of players - in a steadier atmosphere. The real question is: If Arnot had done his job, and secured the required funding - and not forced Billups to resign. Would the Eagles have done better. I say yes.

I think the USA would have done better under Tom Billup's coaching - but not for the reasons, you ask the question. And the reason has some comparison with the topic above. Tom Billups resigned over issues that involved integrity - but the base problem was lack of funds to run the programs that he planned would have at least matched the Canadian Effort. But there was a budget cap and then it was cut in half. If Billups had been provided with the funds to run his programs, we would have seen a much better mix of players - in a steadier atmosphere. The real question is: If Arnot had done his job, and secured the required funding - and not forced Billups to resign. Would the Eagles have done better. I say yes.

I think the USA would have done better under Tom Billup's coaching - but not for the reasons, you ask the question. And the reason has some comparison with the topic above. Tom Billups resigned over issues that involved integrity - but the base problem was lack of funds to run the programs that he planned would have at least matched the Canadian Effort. But there was a budget cap and then it was cut in half. If Billups had been provided with the funds to run his programs, we would have seen a much better mix of players - in a steadier atmosphere. The real question is: If Arnot had done his job, and secured the required funding - and not forced Billups to resign. Would the Eagles have done better. I say yes.

I agree 100%. Lets support the new BOD.

This is one of the most impressive group of names I have had the pleasure of seeing, apply for the positions on the new BOD. Ed is right - we do need to give the new BOD our full support, and time to get things moving. I'd like to see Dave Hodges in the Athlete appointment - and BTW I'd like to see Anne Barry on the BOD too. The WNT need representation at this level. And the WNT, is about the only Eagles side who have been winning lately - the WNT deserve it. What the BOD needs is an ex member, who has the Youth programs as thier forte. Hodges has an interest in this area - perhaps he should champion the cause - I can't think of too many other formar players who would be better. The credentials of the new BOD nominees, are very impressive. Finance, Marketing, Promotions - all look like achievers in achieving companies. We done to the selection people responsible for bringing this group together. It feels like USAR is back on the right train, on the right track & heading in the right direction. Lets all get behind this new board 100%.

Sounds like a winner to me. If the winning team, splits the loot, each would get somewhere between 50-80k depending on the number of people involved, and running costs. Not a bad result for a day at the races. Who'd play - for that kind of money, I'd play! But no one would pay to watch me though. I'd suspect it would be something like a LAU 7's side. Maybe with some ring in stars from overseas? 50-80k for some, is alot of money. It's enough, to make some of our better players stay in the US, rather than going offshore to make money playing. The added media attention, could be hugely lucrative. And could turn the right inderviduals into mega sports stars. If a side, was lucky enough to be stacked with Eagles - and win the cash. It would take away a huge problem currently facing those players. That of being able to take unpaid time off work, for USA Eagles duties. I think that kind of thing would be good for USAR. The flip side is - it rockets rugby into homes around the country, on primetime tv - at peak times. This IS the way it could be. Were talking about a TV show though - were not talking about USAR. There should be no intent to change the face of rugby worldwide. Although, this actually may be the road into the american market and sponsorship we are all looking for.

Huge story there Kurt - huge. I didn't see you at the game. Why is that ?

Who the hell are you talking to steve - me?

Sounds to me like you have an indepth knowledge of the pipe.... If you feel so strongly, I suggest you consider legal action. Not everyone disagrees with you, however, without good cause and at least one item of evidence to support such claims - having the books opened at either Texas or USAR Level will be a very difficult job. Should it happen: Probably. But the facts are, they probably wont open the books for you. And there's nothing short of gaining admission or voted onto the TRU or TYRA (whatever) you can do about it. And, No - I'm not one of the stealth sponsors. I just donate openly, in the public eye. And ask nothing in return btw.

I find it remarkable, that on the eve of a Home International match - and 3 weeks from a new BOD meeting - that some people have the single minded selfish attitude, to change this entire article into a handbag swinging contest for the Texas Rugby Union. No one cares if anyone uses a nickname - that's part of the reason some people use forums like this. You may actually be surprized who some of the nicknames are owned by. You could be sitting at your computor, busily attacking one of the leading sponsors of youth rugby in this country - and you'd never even know it. Wouldn't you feel silly? Not everyone hides behind a nickname for malicious reasons.

Tell us the reason?????

Geraint Hill - well said! We did well against Ireland 'A', and the real Ireland team gave the All Blacks a run for thier money. Not a bad effort, considering all the C-Rap that went on between USAR and....... So we didn't do so well against the Maori - Neither did the British and Irish Lions....... And if you banked on a 1 point victory as your saving grace, against Canada last season - this year, it was about right. They beat us fair and square - and now we need to live with the shame. 0-3 That's the cold hard facts. I expect better. Don't you? Not sure what other readers want/need/like - but I want to see some Gawd Dangit wins on the board. And at this stage, I don't give a rat's how they come. Mongral!!! - not mongral. Disciplined, focused, controled - aggression, that may actually intimidate the opposition. We have no one that scares the opposition in our Eagles squad. MacDonald and Tarpoff played outstanding rugby. I would have gone for MacDoanld for the MVP - but others say different. And Tarpoff, is on a rugby comeback. He gave his all - hat's off to the man. The scrum is a shocker though - and the attention to the ball at phase play, is terrible. No horsebits - but someone needs to get the boots working - on, or/at the ball area. The rules state 1 whole meter around the ball. Clear the dang path to the ball - let YOUR scrumhalf go get it, and send YOUR backs off to the races with clean, go forward ball. Mongral - has nothing to do with it. Go to mediazone and watch the games yourself. Replay the breakdowns. We did ok - we just need to get a whole lot cleaner at the breakdowns. Wasn't Emerick Awesome......

Hansen and Petruzzella - missing the D1 semi-finals? That doesn't seem right, I thought Olympic Club were knocked out in the Quarter finals.

1. TB Did quit 2. It was Dave Hodges who said it was Un-American, I said not the AMERICAN way

Thanks Kurt, Just wanted to know the validity of the comment. And thanks for the info on the USOC, I didn't know that. Eddie Jones was underachieving, not underfunded. But an underachieving side gets less recognition/sponsorship and thereby funding, than an achieving side, and in a world of marketing rugby and selling the game - both are linked hand to hand. So in some ways, Arnot's failures, may have been a case of not having a blockbuster product to sell. There's no shame in that - It's just a reality. Taking nothing away from the Eagles for thier efforts. They have done the very best they could under trying circumstances. And make no bones about it - I am one of the biggest Eagles fans. Nothing makes me prouder of watching our guys play, and the sound of the national anthem playing loud and proud makes me feel great. And for that reason alone, I wish all the clocks could be wound back - and Tom reinstated as the coach. Because he did a fantastic job, working under extreamly difficult circumstance. And even though Dave Hodges took a shot at me this morning - I respect you too Dave. And if it was up to me, you'd be back too. But we can't undo what's done - Maybe, a coach would have said to himself "screw you for not giving me the funds to run a decient international program - I'll take my boys, and start whipping some butt, and force you to give us more" Again, my thoughts are with the Strain family, as they have been since I heard of thier situation a couple of months ago. You did a good job Mike. Well done.

Sorry Mr Hodges - Clearly you misunderstood my comments. Far be it for me to have a thought, especially if it differs from you'res. Mike Strain is a good guy and a dedicated family man. I know him well. And yes, I know about his daughters terrible disease. My heart goes out to the Strain family. My comments about Mike aren't personal - just asking where the news came from, and by what means it was transfered and relayed to print on this blog. From a pure business end, Friday was a good day to release someone from employment - it gives him 3 full days to find other employment. Far better to do it on the Friday before a long weekend, than let him spend what money he may have on a big weekend, and then find out he is being released. And since you said it - how exactly do you know he was at the hospital??? Did he tell you personnally - maybe a phone call, email - how did you know? Did JC or TB tell you? I don't care one way or another about the All Blacks, what they do, did or will do for the future. My interest is only in the future of the USA Eagles. Future - not past. I can't change what's happened to and within USAR lately. I know it's not my fault. But I do blame Arnot and TB, Arnot for not bringing in the sponsorship dollars and TB for not giving him a product worth selling. You're right, this isn't New Zealand - ok lets call it South Africa. Tell me the SARU hasn't gone though something similar to the USA over the last few months. Maybe we'll call it Australia - swap Eddie Jones' name for TB, and it's the same situation. The only difference is - Jones didn't QUIT. Maybe we can wear t-shirts and make up signs - "Bring back Tom" Or perhaps you have a plan - a plan so cunning you could pin a tail on it and call it a weasel.