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ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The countdown is on. Alexandria's rugby teams depart for Dundee, Scotland, in less than two weeks — and this Sunday is your chance to send them off.
Mayor Alyia Gaskins is hosting a free community send-off party on Sunday, July 26, from 12–3 p.m. at the Fraternal Order of the Eagles, 1015 Cameron St. The event is open to all ages and free to attend.
The afternoon will feature a chance to meet the 30–40 players traveling to Scotland, rugby demonstrations from the Alexandria Selects, a "What is Rugby" education station, a photo op area, a farewell banner signing, rugby terminology bingo, pennant flag crafting, temporary tattoos and raffle prizes every 30 minutes. Mayor Gaskins will host a welcome table with autograph posters and team merchandise.
Alexandria athletes, supporters, and civic leaders travel to Dundee from August 4–8 to compete in three matches: the Veterans Rugby Challenge for the Gavin Garden Cup, the Ladies Rugby Challenge for the Lord Provost Cup, and the Men's Rugby Challenge for the Mayor's Cup. As we reported last month, this year also marks the first time a women's squad will represent Alexandria in the Cup.
Dundee has held the Mayor's Cup trophy since the original series in 2008 and 2009. Alexandria is hoping to finally bring it home.
Players are funding their own way to Scotland. Alexandria Rugby is a 501(c)(3) and donations are tax-deductible via GoFundMe.
Register for Sunday's send-off here. Follow the teams on Instagram at @alexandriamayorscup for updates.
