Summer Camps kick off for the top USA U18 Women across the country

U18 Women’s Pathways development has been busy this summer with 2 dedicated talent ID summer camps. Designed to refine the next generation of elite athletes, Head Coach Susan Whitwell identified over 80 of the top young players from across the country.

The ‘West Camp’ kicked off last week at Western Oregon University, while this week, Whitwell focused on Eastern talent with over 40 campers kitting out at Mt St Mary’s University in Maryland.

Both intakes selected the top players in their geographic spread to come together to focus on skill development, playing cohesiveness and an understanding of what individual work-ons they need to focus on to stay on the pathways radar as they elevate their rugby !Q.

Pathways Head Coach Susan Whitwell emphasized that these camps are critical for setting the baseline of what it takes to perform at the next level.

"The energy across both camps has been incredible. At this age level, it’s not just about raw athleticism; it’s about understanding the game. We want to challenge players to think differently on the pitch and elevate their overall rugby IQ."

"We've selected the top talent in the geographic spread. Every player will gain a clear understanding of their individual 'work ons' and on how they can improve at home to stay on the pathways radar as they rejoin their club teams."

Susan Whitwell | Women’s Junior National Team U18 Head Coach

Kelly Griffin | Women’s Pathway Coach

Stacey Markovic |Women’s Pathway Coach

Martha Daines | Head of Player Systems and Development - Women

Mike Eisenhart | Strength and Conditioning Coach

Stacy Mancuso | Analyst

Amy McCormick | On-site Manager