It's a massive weekend for women's rugby as Houston gets set to host the second leg of the inaugural IRB Women Sevens Series. The Women Eagles are one of the favorites to do well and will certainly want to impress their home fans. One of the stars of the team, Deven Owsiany, took some time out of her preparations to answer some of our questions. 

 

This Is American Rugby: The Houston 7's are this weekend. How exciting is it to play in an official IRB tournament in your home country?

 

Deven Owsiany: It is really exciting to play on our home turf, especially since Houston has so much character. The BBVA stadium is a gorgeous facility and I can't wait to show America some great rugby this weekend. 

 

TIAR: What has the mood been like as the team prepares for the weekend? Anything specific you have worked on in practice?

 

DO: The mood has been great. Last Friday at practice you could  really see people playing with passion which is something we want to bring to the pitch this weekend. We are about to head to the pitch for our last training session and I can't wait to pull up to the stadium tomorrow. 

 

TIAR: Dubai was a bit disappointing for the team. What was the biggest thing you and the team learned from the experience?

 

DO: We learned that we need to play relaxed but with fire under us. 7s is a great game and if we play with the joy, confidence, and a smile on our face,  great things will happen. 

 

TIAR: How has the IRB Women Sevens Series changed the game of the rugby and what do you think will be the long lasting effects of the Series?

 

DO: The IRB WSWS has changed the game tremendously. It is no longer just a tournament, there's a series to worry about. There is a lot more pressure on each tournament but that adds to the excitement of each game. 

 

TIAR: What are your personal goals heading into the tournament?

 

DO: Personally I would like to own every tackle I have and to let my defensive energy spark my offense.

 

TIAR: How has training in a full-time environment helped the team both on the field and off the field?

 

DO: Training in a full time environment has been great. It has definitely challenged us both mentally and physically but every time we face a challenge the bond between us grows. When one of of struggles there is always a teammate that will help pick them up. 

 

TIAR: What is something that fans should now about you that they don't already know?

 

DO: I have a major sweet tooth. I'm a major thrill seeker. Love roller-coasters, country concerts, snowboarding, and sudoku.