USA Eagles hooker Kirk Khasigian has been counting down the days to Rugby World Cup 2003 not for a few weeks, but a couple of years such is his desire to play again on “rugby’s biggest stage”.
Khasigian, who was named today in the Eagles starting line up for their Pool B opener against Fiji at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Wednesday at 17:00 local time, played in the 1999 Tournament when he appeared as replacement for his current national coach Tom Billups.
“I’m feeling very excited,” admitted Khasigian, whose father Fred played at hooker in the first official team assembled under the banner of USA Rugby in 1976, last week.
“I’ve been looking forward to the challenge of playing in this World Cup for three years and now it’s almost here I’m really looking forward to hearing that first whistle and playing on rugby’s biggest stage.
A senior player
“Playing in Ireland in 1999 was a great experience and gives me some perspective for this World Cup. This time is a little more special because I have a larger role on the team as a senior player.
“As a team we have had to overcome several challenges to qualify for this Tournament and conquering these obstacles have made this a very tight knit, determined team that will perform well in this Tournament.”
The Eagles have won only one Rugby World Cup match – a debut 21-18 defeat of Japan in Brisbane in 1987 – but Khasigian insists they are determined to put this right after qualifying for this Tournament through the Répechage.
High expectations
“As a team we are hoping to put in four good performances and challenge each of our opponents to the final stages of each match,” revealed Khasigian, who has won 33 caps since making his debut in a Rugby World Cup qualifier with Argentina in 1998.
“Our team goals include winning our first World Cup match since 1987.
“As an individual I want to contribute to the team’s performances by executing my role in set pieces, playing solid defence, and having positive moments in attack.
“In addition to playing well on the field, I want to make sure to enjoy the World Cup experience.”