Team USA bound for New Zealand

USA Bound for New Zealand

ATHLETES
Neil Gustafson, Rob Krows, Mike Wagner,
Steve Kearley, Eddie Alexander, Bryan Kirkland, Bob Lujano, Sam Gloor
Willard Brooks, Mark Zupan, Mike Gilliland, Steve Pate

STAFF
Head Coach - Kevin Orr, Assistant Coach - James Gumbert
Team Nurse - Jane Thomas, Team Trainer - Nancy Lehrer
Equipment Manager - John Ershek, Team Leader John Bishop

10/8/99

The US National rugby team is off to New Zealand to compete at the 1999 Stoke Mandeville World Wheelchair Games this month. Taking place in Christchurch, this is the first year the games have been held outside of England. The venue will provide an excellent opportunity for the athletes to compete in a world class competition in the southern hemisphere before the 2000 Paralympic Games.

The USQRA is sending twelve of its best athletes, along with a staff of six on this tour. "This is a developmental squad with no previous World Championship, or Paralympic experience" says Team leader John Bishop. "Our goal is to develop less experienced players in order to help take the USA into the future." This sport becomes more competitive throughout the world each year. "If you want to continue lead the world, you must be prepared."

Make no mistake, this team is strong, and very anxious to play against the best. Several training camps around the country during the off-season have given members an opportunity to come together and gel as a squad. "Teams from New Zealand, Sweden, Australia and Japan will all be gunning for us" says Bishop. The US squad will have to work extra hard if it is to maintain the United States proud and unbeaten record in international play. Every nation wants to be the first to claim victory over the red, white and blue machine. This team is determined not to let it happen on their watch.

Team members have promised to update Rugby Talk with tournament results from New Zealand so you can follow their progress. The playing schedule can also be viewed by following the link on the Rugby Calendar.