Kelly Griffin (left) and Phaidra Knight on the international stage. /// Photos courtesy World Rugby •
When it came to the senior National All Star Competition (NASC), there weren’t too many surprises in terms of invitees. From those who earned 15s caps the previous two years, to those who impressed during the Women’s Premier League (WPL), to those who spend their days at the Olympic Training Center – the roster was familiar. But the winter NASC also saw the return of some veterans who are looking to extend their careers into the 2017 Women’s Rugby World Cup (WRWC).
Having competed in three World Cups and named to the All-World Team twice, Phaidra Knight reactivated her role with the New York Rugby Club during the 2016 WPL season. The former loose forward secured the starting hooker position during New York’s third-place campaign, and returned to the front row – where her international career began – during the senior NASC matches.
In Lakeland, Fla., Knight noted the first XV’s superior level of cohesion – formed during the November tests against France – but praised the second XV for an uptick in intensity and structure in game two.
“Although I have not attended a [USA 15s assembly] in well over six years, it was definitely the most challenging one to date given the demands put on each athlete,” Knight reflected.
“[C]ompared to the USA teams I have represented in previous World Cups, although there are some variances in the style of play, there are several constants that remain, i.e., emphasis on winning each point of contact and proper execution of basic skills and set pieces,” Knight added. “It is a very good and familiar sign from the 2006 and 2010 World Cup eras that these players are taking responsibility and accountability for the things within their control.”
Knight is competing against players like Katy Augustyn, also a World Cup vet, and Sam Pankey for that USA hooker position, which was also challenged by the next class of Eagles from the developmental squads at NASC. Many of those players are Women’s Collegiate All-Americans (WCAAs).
“Having the developmental/WCAA players involved enhances the competitive yet positive dynamic amongst all players,” Knight explained. “It’s good for the senior payers to have the younger players pushing them for positions on the senior side. Equally so, it’s imperative that the younger players have exposure to the mentorship of senior players at these venues. The overall culture of the Women’s National Team pool and USA Rugby strengthens as these relationships are forged.”
Kelly Griffin injects some pressure into the pool, as well. An original USA 7s resident, Griffin captained Team USA to a fifth-place finish at the 2016 Rio Olympics in August. After nearly five years at the Olympic Training Center, the 30-year-old transitioned out of the 7s program. She maintained an active training regimen but didn’t align with an WPL team this past fall. The last time Griffin competed in the elite 15s competition, she helped the Berkeley All Blues to a 2011 championship and led the league in tries scored. Then a center, Griffin stepped into scrumhalf during NASC.
“NASC was really fun. The level of competition was amazing and it was great to meet a lot of new people and catch up with old friends,” wrote Griffin. “Getting back into 15s has been really enjoyable, there is definitely some rust.”
With four teams running (including the developmental sides), there was room to work in several players into the No. 9 spot, especially with the absence of Deven Owsiany and later Jenny Lui, who sustained an injury during camp. Players like Lindenwood’s AnnaKaren Pedraza, for example, were promoted to the senior match.
Griffin is also spending her time helping Kevin Battle build the Santa Barbara Rugby Academy women’s program. Some core athletes will inaugurate the program next week, and then Griffin and staff will recruit and grow the ranks.
“I am really excited about the program because it offers a real high-performance environment with S&C and everything,” Griffin enthused. “Also, the Academy has a partnership with the local community college for athletes who want to continue their education.”
And the cycle continues – one with which Knight and Griffin is very familiar. The next phase for the USA is naming the World Cup player pool, which will include 35-40 players. Stay tuned.
RELATED ARTICLES