Aug 31- One of Arizona's rising stars has caught the eye of national team coaches, earning selection to the USA Under-23 Sevens squad for the Rugbytown Sevens earlier this month. Standout Flanker EJ Freeman's selection to the team formerly known as the All Americans is Freeman's second age-grade selection of the summer, wearing the colors after earning a USA Under-20 selection in Amsterdam.

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Freeman played a major role in the side's run to the Cup Finals, where they finished as runners-up. The squad, made up of all college players, puts those selected front and center in front of senior national team coaches, a goal that Freeman has had for years. "It was an amazing experience. It was always a goal to represent the USA at a high level. The boys, the staff, and all the supporters made what we did possible and I thank them for that" said the Junior from Frankfurt, Germany. The Openside Flanker had previously played a major role for the Wildcats this past year, earning first team All PAC-12 and playing a major role in the Cats' run to the Cup Quarterfinals at national championships.

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For the Wildcats, Freeman follows in the footsteps of Sevens stars like Peter Tiberio, Brett Thompson, Ryan Matyas, and Kyle Rogers that have made the side. "Incredibly proud of EJ and it's a testament to the work he has put in to reach this level. What makes him different in my opinion is he's already looking at how to improve, how to be even better should he have the chance to get selected again for an opportunity like this" said Director of Rugby Sean Duffy.

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Now turning his attention back to Tucson, Freeman looks to bring that experience back to Arizona, with an eye on the upcoming Fall Sevens events. "I plan on bringing that standard and intensity back to Arizona, which will show in the team when we push for that PAC-12 Sevens Championship" said Freeman. 

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The Wildcats recently started preseason camp, with the team's preseason schedule set to be announced shortly.

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