USA RUGBY RELEASE

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Maddie Hughes, Avery Kemora, and Salome Schmitt of the Queens University of Charlotte women's rugby team were selected to compete for the USA U-20 Junior National team.

The U-20 Junior National team, consisting of some of the most promising young American players, is competing in two matches in Ontario, Canada to take on two of the top collegiate Canadian teams.

Following Queens' NIRA Semifinal appearance last season, the three Royals selections to the U-20 Junior National team tie for the most selections of any school represented.

Hughes, an incoming sophomore earned All-NIRA recognition for her standout freshman season at fullback. "The ability to switch codes from 7-a-side rugby to World Cup style 15s is not an easy task, especially at the International level", stated Queens Head Women's Rugby Coach, Katie Wurst. "Maddie will look to make her mark as an evasive scoring threat for the U20 program against strong Canadian opponents."  

Kemora, an incoming junior earned All-NIRA recognition for play as a loosehead prop. "Avery is an absolute force for the USA U20 Junior National Team", Wurst added. "She is certain to continue her dominance at the breakdown, and in the set piece, as she does for Queens Rugby on a regular basis." 

Schmitt, an incoming freshman, marks the third Royal selection. "Sal is such an exciting student-athlete to watch play rugby, and she is an exceptional teammate who always helps her teammates play at their best", Wurst continued. "We can't wait for her to make an impact for the USA U20 squad and at Queens."