Previously held in Trinidad & Tobago, the FLOW Rugby Barbados World 7s tournament offers cash prizes to the top-five finishers, and the women’s champion will go home with $10,000. Atlantis is one of four U.S. squads competing in the 10-team women’s division, and has brought an even mix of returners and rookies to the Caribbean.
Six players have won the aquamarine jersey before: Lindenwood’s Hannah Gauthreaux, the only collegiate vet; Megan “5-0” Hanson, the hard-tackling NOVA forward; Ariel Johnson, who continues to amaze in her recovery; rangy former 7s Eagle Kaelene Lundstrum; and California’s Josie Ziluca and Jessica Turner, who continue their prominent 7s careers with San Diego and Berkeley, respectively.
The newcomers are not new in terms of familiarity. Abby Vestal is a 7s specialist out of ARPTC and was a highlight during the club 7s championship. Christina Swift and Kim Semiglia have been integral pieces to Life University’s rapid success. Davon Thomas has been on the collegiate radar for years with Lindenwood. And UVA’s Peyton Larus (now with James River) and leggy Summer Harris-Jones have helped the best DI spring team on the East Coast stay there.
Atlantis starts its day against Aptoella, a Canadian all-star team that typically includes former/current national team players. Pool play will also includes matches against fellow U.S. team Scion Sirens, Ecosse (Scotland) and Barbados. Click here for the Day 1 schedule. Placing rounds are Sunday.
ATLANTIS WOMEN’S 7SHannah Gauthreaux – Lindenwood UniversityMegan Hanson – NOVASummer Harris-Jones – Virginia Women’s RugbyAriel Johnson – NOVAPeyton Larus – James River, UVA gradKaelene Lundstrum – Twin Cities Amazons Kim Semiglia – Life UniversityChristina Swift – Life UniversityDavon Thomas – Lindenwood UniversityJessica Turner – Berkeley All BluesAbby Vestal – ARPTCJosie Ziluca – San Diego Surfers
Head Coach: Dana CreagerAsst Coach: Billy NicholasManager: Stephiejo EdwardsMedia Specialist: Amy Kingsbury