Sept 18- Arizona Rugby has announced the 26-man side that will travel to Flagstaff tomorrow for the Wildcats’ preseason opener against Northern Arizona University.

First-year second row Oliver Ryan will lead the side, with the 6-foot-5 Australian making a big impact just weeks into his time in the desert. Scrumhalf Quinn Bevan will join him in the leadership group as vice captain as the Wildcats take on the Lumberjacks at 1 PM PST.

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For the Wildcats, the three-period match will provide meaningful opportunities for athletes across the squad, with many of the players making their first appearances for Arizona or competing in their first preseason with the program.

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In the forwards, Dom Zapata and Jamie Clegg will provide veteran leadership at prop and lock, respectively. In the backs, Bevan will be joined by transfer flyhalf Vince Jacoby, with the former Iowa Central Community College and Kansas City Junior Blues standout looking to help lead the Arizona attack.

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At outside center, USA U18 selection Masiu Aholelei is in line to make his Arizona debut, joining George Hemings, a former Canada U18 player pool selection.

The 26-man side also features several talented athletes on the bench, with the three-period format expected to provide meaningful minutes throughout the squad in the early-season fixture.

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“We’re thankful to NAU, not just for hosting, but for the hard work they are putting in to support the game’s growth in the northern part of our state. This is exciting for everyone because we are going to get valuable minutes in a nice climate and get some time as a team for those bonds to form within the squad,” said Director of Rugby Sean Duffy.

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The match will not feature a public stream, but score updates will be posted on the team’s social media following the match.

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