After a solid showing at a warmup event this past weekend, the Eagle Impact Rugby Academy Midwest team is preparing to strap on its boots for the Rocky Mountain Challenge this Saturday and Sunday in Aurora, CO.

Under head coach Eddie Abel, EIRA MW has opened up tryouts to players from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Michigan. While the bulk of the players have come from Ohio and Indiana, Abel said he is excited about the opportunity to showcase more players from the region.

At the Midwest All-Star Challenge in Elkhart, IN, EIRA Midwest lost 31-29 to Ohio's Celtic Elite on the last play of the game after leading 22-0 at halftime. Abel wasn't too concerned. The purpose, for him, was to ensure as many players as possible received time and gained high-level experience.

Abel said he is pleased with the depth he has seen within his squad, and will take a strong program to the Rocky Mountain Challenge, including a varsity, JV, and two middle school squads.

Looking strong for the varsity team was Royal Irish prop Andy Guhl, who is a force up front, and Brownsburg back Isaac Good, who is an exciting, direct runner with plenty of skills. He has the versatility to play almost anywhere in the backline. Jacob Goeppner (South Suburban High School, IL) has impressed and John Rizzo (also from South Suburban) showed well in Elkhart. Fishers standout Michael Nettleton rounds out a talented three-quarter group. 

"It's going to be exciting to challenge ourselves," Abel said.

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