Women's Rugby's Kiyanah Edwards named to USA squad for Global Youth 7s
AUCKLAND, New Zealand – Fresh off of winning the National Intercollegiate Rugby Association Division II National Championship, American International College women's rugby wing Kiyanah Edwards has been named to the United States team for the Global Youth 7s, a major international 18U rugby sevens tournament held annually that pits the best youth rugby players from around the globe against one another in a three-day tournament that will be held December 13-15.
More information about the event, including watch links, can be found at the event's website, https://www.globalyouthsevens.rugby/.
A graduate of Columbia Central High School in Columbia, Tennessee, this will be Edwards' second time representing the US at the Global Youth 7s.
"Being selected for the USA team means everything to be. It's not just about the honor of being recognized as one of the best in my age bracket, but also the incredible opportunity to make my family and community proud…I'm deeply grateful for this chance to represent my country and showcase my abilites," Edwards said.
AIC's Director of Rugby, T Fletcher, said of the young back, "I'm thrilled to see Kiyanah back at it again and earning another opportunity to represent the Red, White, and Blue. She's hard working, coachable, and such a driven young woman with a bright future. I know she'll make the most of this experience and we're eager to learn from her upon her return."
The speedy back was an instrumental part of AIC's success in her first collegiate-level campaign, helping lead a powerful offense that scored 460 points in six NIRA Division II games across the regular season and NIRA Tournament and went undefeated against DII competition to win the team's second national title in four years.
Edwards relishes the opportunity to continue to represent AIC on an international stage.
"[This] is an incredible opportunity to embody the values and spirit of my school. It's a chance to strive for greatness. This role allows me to pursue my dreams and make a meaningful impact, reflecting the dedication and hard work of our community," she said.