A happy bunch of Eagles
USA Eagles loose forward JJ Gagiano reports back on his team’s Pool C win over Russia. And it’s fair to say – as one would assume – that the Eagles were a happy bunch…
Hello from a VERY happy USA Eagles camp.
We won against Russia in a titanic struggle. The weather played its part for the clash and it was fitting that it rained just before the game and then pelted down during half-time.
We, again showed resolute defence and an eagerness to put our bodies on the line. It was a big effort, especially as we played Ireland just four days before.
There were a few sore bodies the next morning at the recovery session, but Dave ‘GP’ Williams (our strength and conditioning coach) allowed us to have a little fun on the water slides. It was great as the last few days were very emotionally charged and the guys really enjoyed the time off.
A couple of us had a media commitment at Opunake school about 70km outside of New Plymouth. The school had put so much effort into welcoming us and it was extremely humbling how appreciative the kids were for one of rugbys so called minnows. We had the traditional Hongi or greeting followed by a few skits and, of course, the school Haka. This was followed by lunch, then an autograph signing session – we must have signed about 200 autographs!! (I’m struggling to type this column, in fact!)
We had the rest of the day off and most guys spent it sleeping and resting the bodies. A few of us went for a lovely steak at Lonestar restaurant… and then early to bed.
We have a light day today with only a gym session and game reviews from Russia, and as we close that chapter we start preparing for our next game against Australia in Wellington on September 23.
We’re all looking forward to the challenge!
Chat soon,
JJ
* Follow the USA Eagles online at www.USARugby.org and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/usarugby
* UCT loose forward – and Varsity Cup product – JJ Gagiano made his USA Eagles debut in November 2008. Follow his Rugby World Cup story on rugby365.com!
* Read JJ’s previous diary entry, HERE!
JJ relaxing pitch-side ahead of the USA-Russia match
