The USA Eagles women’s rugby team has officially announced its starting lineup to face Fiji in a thrilling match scheduled for Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the sold-out Audi Field in Washington D.C. This match marks an important stepping stone as all five selected players—Kathryn Treder, Keia Mae Sagapolu, Tahlia Brody, Alev Kelter, and Bulou Mataitoga—have also made it to the World Cup squad set to compete later this summer.
Kelter will be competing in her third World Cup, while Treder and Mataitoga prepare for their second. Meanwhile, Sagapolu and Brody will be making their World Cup debuts. The USA Women’s Eagles aim to kick off their World Cup journey with a tough opening match against host nation England, a game that promises to showcase the talent of the squad, including some players who will face their Loughborough teammates in the Red Roses.
USA Head Coach Sione Fukofuka praised Fiji, highlighting their exciting and unpredictable playing style centered around a powerful scrum and strong forward pack. He expressed enthusiasm for meeting this challenge and unveiling the team’s strengths, particularly their forward capabilities and backline execution.
The starting lineup includes:
1. Hope Rogers
2. Kathryn Treder (Loughborough Lightning)
3. Keia Mae Sagapolu
4. Hallie Taufoou (Loughborough Lightning)
5. Erica Jarrell
6. Tahlia Brody (Loughborough Lightning)
7. Kate Zackary
8. Rachel Johnson
9. Olivia Ortiz
10. McKenzie Hawkins
11. Erica Coulibaly
12. Alev Kelter (Loughborough Lightning)
13. Ilona Maher
14. Emily Henrich
15. Bulou Mataitoga (Loughborough Lightning)
Substitutes include Paige Stathopoulos, Alivia Leatherman, Catie Benson, Rachel Ehrecke, Georgie Perris-Redding, Cassidy Bargell, Kristin Bitter, and Sariah Ibarra.
With this strong roster and a clear focus on improvement from previous performances, the Eagles are looking forward to a competitive matchup that highlights the growth and potential of women’s rugby in the USA. The anticipation for this match is palpable and sets an exhilarating stage for their World Cup aspirations.