When the USA Women’s Eagles take the pitch at Texas Health Mansfield Stadium on Saturday, October 17th, local rugby fans will have another major regional connection to cheer for in USA Eagle #314, Freda Tafuna.
While Tafuna originally hails from Southern California and built a championship collegiate legacy at Lindenwood University, her ties to North Texas run deep. With close family living right here in the area and her sister competing on the local rugby pitch in Dallas, Tafuna’s return to DFW is a genuine family affair.
Before establishing herself as an elite cornerstone of the Eagles forward pack on the world stage, Tafuna compiled one of the most decorated collegiate careers in US rugby history. She is a two-time recipient of the prestigious MA Sorensen Award, presented annually to the top collegiate women’s rugby player in the nation.
Known for her relentless work rate, explosive ball-carrying, and bone-crunching tackles in the back row, Tafuna’s presence in Mansfield brings incredible star power and local pride to this high-stakes test match against Italy.
Having world-class talent with strong local roots repping the red, white, and blue right here in our backyard makes this a historic night for our Texas rugby family.
Matchday Details:
- Matchup: USA Women’s Eagles vs. Italy
- Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
- Location: Texas Health Mansfield Stadium, Mansfield, TX
- Gates Open: 4:00 PM CT
- Kickoff: 5:00 PM CT
Tickets: Less than half the stadium remains! The Texas Rugby Union has secured a special 20% discount on tickets open to the entire community.
