Afghanistan – As Eagle fans across America set up their viewing parties for the 2019 Rugby World Cup; one fan finds himself in a slightly different setting, yet still ready to cheer on the Eagles. Sergeant Nick Van De Yacht will be watching from Afghanistan where he is currently deployed. Luckily, he is accompanied by international soldiers who also happen to be rugby fans.
“I am stationed at a camp in Afghanistan. It is a base run by the British. The bulk of which are British and Australian. But there are smaller factions from New Zealand, Turkey, Germany, Wales, and a few from Scotland and Ireland,” said Van De Yacht, Bravo Team Leader for 2724 Guardian Angel/Security Force squad for the 2233 team for Security Forces Assistance Brigade (SFAB).
“One of our British counterparts coordinated everything
on the plans to decorate ‘Jacob’s Terrace’ with all teams of nations that will
be represented by soldiers here.”
A troop member from each nation sent a letter to their
respective Rugby Union requesting decorations that can be displayed in the
common area where the matches will be playing. As a result, the Jacob Terrace
now displays represented nations include the United States, New Zealand,
Australia, South Africa, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and England.
“It shows one of the best aspects of the sport, and that
is comradery. As ruggers, we all know that no matter where you are in the world
(even in a third world country) you have a friend that shares that common bond
and love for one of the greatest sports on the planet.”
Van De Yacht enlisted in the Wisconsin Army National
Guard on October 9, of 2009 and still serves with them today. While he may be
far from his home town in Little Suamico, Wisconsin, he is still finding ways
to stay connected to his rugby roots.
“I started playing for UW-Milwaukee Panthers in college
from 1995-1997. Then I started playing summers 7s for Green Bay Rugby Football
Club – Celtics in 1996 and 1997. Then played full-time D3 from 1997 through my
last full side competitive match in 2012. Our team went from D3 to D2 with a D4
side for old boys and newcomers in 2015.”
Although Van De Yacht is away from his local rugby
community, he has found good company to watch the upcoming matches.
“The coolest part is being around fans of other nations
where rugby is so prevalent in their culture. And getting the chance to show
that American rugby is getting more popular every year,” Van De Yacht
concluded.
The Men’s National Team will compete in Pool C against Argentina, England, France, and Tonga starting September 20, 2019. Visit the Rugby World Cup tournament center for information on the team, schedule, and latest updates.
