USRF to Auction Autographed 2007 Crusaders Jersey

San Diego, CA (July 17, 2007) – A jersey autographed by 28 members of this year’s Super 14 Crusaders team is the latest jersey to be auctioned off by the United States Rugby Foundation.The Crusaders, the most successful team in Super 14 history and winners of five Super 12 and one Super 14 titles, came up one game short this year of playing in its 9th Super 12 or Super 14 final.The jersey was donated to the Foundation by former United States Eagles player Robbie Flynn, whose cousin, Corey Flynn, skippered the 2007 Crusaders.“I’ll do anything I can to help grow the game in the States,” said Robbie Flynn, like his cousin, a hooker. “I’ve talked to Corey and he said that if donating the jersey to the Rugby Foundation assists the game here, than by all means he supports it.”“The Foundation would like to thank Robbie and Corey for the donation of the Crusaders jersey,” said USRF Executive Director Brian Vizard. “The Crusaders have set the bar in Super rugby and many of the game’s greats over the past decade have worn the red and black jumper.”The players who signed this Crusaders jersey include current All Blacks Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Chris Jack and Rico Gear. Photos and a more detailed description of the jersey can be found on eBay, item #180135962876. The bidding will conclude at 6:00 p.m. (PDT) on Thursday, July 12.The USRF is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization established in 1963. Although its main focus is supporting youth and high school rugby, the Foundation also provides grants to coaches and referees; establishes international student exchanges and college scholarships, has assisted the United States Collegiate All-Americans and Boys Under-19 teams, and also provides grants to Safety and Risk Management Research.For more information about the Foundation, go to its website at: www.usrugbyfoundation.org.