Lauren gets invited to USA 7's camp, but has to decline

If it was only as easy as saying yes, and then just showing up to play, Lauren would be there. But having to travel back and forth from France for her work makes it very difficult to maintain a solid training regimen.

In my entire sporting career, I've never seen anyone able to train as hard as Lauren. This is why she was so successful, but this is also the exact reason she won't play in the Vegas 7's this year. If she can't do her training the way she wants to, then she feels ill-prepared and won't be ready mentally.

It goes without saying - I'm very fond of this woman and I'm very proud of her rugby endeavors as well. First, that she took on a new sport and tried for a spot on the National Team. Second, that she made the USA team, and had the skill and defense to hold her own with more experienced players. And finally, to be able to step away temporarily when she loves this game. The greatest thing for her in regards to rugby is that she'll always be able to play. Whether it's one year, 2 years, or 4 years from now, she'll get back on the pitch and more than prove herself once again.