ADF union squad heads up north

By Daniel Wheelahan

CDF GEN Peter Cosgrove throws the ball to ASRU team members CPO Andrew Bertoncin, CPL James Hood, and CAPT Pete Conroy.

Photo by SGT Sybelle Foxcroft

THE Australian Services Rugby Union (ASRU) squad is undertaking a five-match tour of Canada and the United States from October 4-27.

The 27-man squad will play five games in 16 days with the first match against Pacific Pride, Victoria (effectively the Canadian under-23s) on October 8.

Strong interest is expected from the local rugby and Defence communities during the tour, with Fox Sports USA expected to broadcast some of the matches.

ASRU coach Wing Commander Graham King said the tour would provide “a great opportunity for ASRU to work on combinations and continue to build its strength prior to its entry into any higher level competition sponsored by the Australian Rugby Union”.

“We are also hoping to build on the lessons learnt from our defeat to Australian Universities in June this year,” WGCDR King said.

The squad took part in a preparation camp at Randwick Barracks, Sydney, before it departed on October 4. Leading the 2004 tour is former Wallaby Brigadier Bob Brown.

ASRU first toured the United States in 1984. The team scored 195 points for and 34 against, with only one loss from six matches – to the New Zealand under-21s – at an international tournament.

ASRU again toured the United States in 1992 with even greater success. ASRU were undefeated in seven games with 192 points for and 14 points against.

Although this year’s match schedule looks a tough assignment, it is hoped the 2004 team can replicate the success of these previous tours. Match results will also be available on the ASRU web site: http://www.servicesrugby.asn.au.

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