Lane Wagner, (15 y/o, TC West) was named to the United States Under-20 developmental squad for the upcoming U19 Invitational National All Star Championships that will take place in Ft Lauderdale, Florida, the weekend of November 22/23.  Wagner was the only player from Michigan to make the squad which is made up primarily of college freshmen.  “While the team will be young it contains ten players from the USA U20 Women's National Team that played in England in 2007 and in South Africa this summer.”  Said Bryn Chivers, Head Coach, USA U20 Women's National Team.

“We are beside ourselves with pride for how well Lane has done”, Said Traverse Bay Alliance Coach Stephanie Kehrer.  “Although this is not unprecedented, it is extremely rare to have a high school sophomore, who just turned 15, make a team made up of the best 18 year olds in the country.” She continued.

Wagner’s saga began when she, along with Sara Arthur (15, Saint Francis) were invited to attend tryouts for the Midwest Select Side (All Star Team) in Bowling Green, OH.  Apparently, Lane so impressed Kurt Weaver, Coach, Midwest U-19 Thunderbirds, that he sent video of Lane’s tryout to the national squad coaching staff.  Coach Chivers and his staff evaluated the footage as well as Lane’s fitness test results and extended her the invitation to join the team.

“To me, this is an indication that Lane has been identified as having the potential to play at the highest level the sport has to offer.  What I find amazing is that we have more than just Lane on the Alliance right now who are capable of performing at that level.  Our program is primarily focused on teaching the sport of rugby in an always positive environment and along the way, we like to think that by developing strength, and mental toughness in these girls, we’re helping the parents create quality young women.  But to have Lane go this far so fast, and to have a few more on the verge of doing so has really taken us by surprise.”  Said Coach Stephanie Kehrer.

“I am nervous and excited for the opportunity to play for the U.S. coaches”.  Said Lane Wagner.  “I am grateful to Coaches Stephanie, Jim, George, and Matt, who have taught me the game of rugby”.  She continued.

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If you would like additional information or to schedule an interview, please call Jim Kehrer at 231 276 6169 or e-mail at jkehrer@mail.com