For years, American rugby has been the kicking child for the International Rugby Board. The United States have been unable to put together a legitimate squad that could challenge internationally any of the world's powerhouse teams.

Over the past year, USA Rugby has made a concerted effort to change this. And while the results of their efforts will not be seen in the 2007 World Cup this autumn, they will be seen in 2011, and in the following years. Don’t believe me? Look at what the American Under-19 squad has accomplished this spring, as well as the Eagles' Sevens squad.

American rugby is growing - more importantly, it is growing from the youth ranks. Around the country high school programs are emerging, and players are developing into quality rugby players at a younger age. This will only work to increase the depth of the talent pool that the Eagles will be able to choose from in future seasons. Even though the efforts to build American rugby are young, they are already being felt on many levels.

Typically, most American rugby players do not begin their playing careers until they enter college - making them 18 years old when they first handle a rugby ball. Due to their late starting age, a quality player is approaching 30 or older before he has gained enough experience to join the Eagles. Even with that, the average player is still lacking many years of experience compared to his international counterparts. While this may seem miniscule, in reality it is a crippling circumstance for American rugby.

However, with the youth movement the United States is currently experiencing, the trend is shifting. Players are now entering college with four or more years' playing experience. The growth of the Under-19 programs around the country has allowed many players to gain international experience before ever leaving home for college. This has allowed America to begin scouting and finding talented players at a very young age, and it has raised the level of competition both at collegiate and men’s club levels.

The results are also being felt in the US Eagles pool. The Eagles' Sevens team had an average age of 23 this past spring. Despite their youth, they were able to win the Plate at the IRB Championships in San Diego, and they made a solid showing in the Hong Kong Sevens. Many of the young men selected for that side will also be in contention for spots on the Eagles' 15s side this up coming fall.