Some fun in New Zealand
The USA Eagles have been working hard ahead of Saturday’s Rugby World Cup Pool C opener against Ireland. However, they also had a day off – during the week – and got plenty of activities under the belt! USA squad member JJ Gagiano gives us the inside scoop…
Well, we had our first off day on Wednesday, and what a day it was!!
I had some media commitments at a local primary school, who were having their ‘Official RWC Opening”. It was awesome to be a part of, and I thoroughly enjoyed it – especially with cameraman Dallen Stanford in his element!!
The boys had arranged a day out at a hunting ranch about 45 minutes outside of Whanganui.
Activities included sheep shearing, clay-pigeon shooting, jet-boating and a helicopter ride. The clay-pigeon shooting was the best activity by far. I did not do too badly, and I was proficient on the double barrel. Chris ‘Shrek’ Wyles, however, could not hit the pigeon if it stood still… missing all his targets. Luckily he is very accurate under the high ball!!!
Another surprise shooter was Todd ‘.com’ Clever who was very spot on with 70% of his targets! A cricket game took place after lunch and Mike ‘Pinch-hitter’ Petri gave us his impression on the reverse sweep and had the boys in fits of laughter!
The helicopter ride had a few boys’ stomachs doing hoolah hoops, as the pilot put us through a series of steep turns and banks. We came back feeling great and relaxed and ready for the rest of the week’s training and the big game on Sunday!
Training has been great and the guys are really excited for Sunday’s game against Ireland. I, unfortunately, have not been selected for the game, but I will be doing my best for the 22 so that we can get a positive result.
We arrived in New Plymouth this afternoon. The weather is a little wet and windy, but the guys are really champing at the bit to get after it…
Until next time,
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!
