By R. Vincent Tupaz
For Variety

RUGBY development Coach Peter Baggetta announced that a standout Rugby player from Guam is making a name for himself on the mainland.
According to Baggetta, Steve Sablan is playing with the Potomac Athletic Club in Washington D.C. Baggetta called Sablan’s performance debut “impressive” during the PAC’s first pre-season scrimmage in a round-robin competition with fellow Super League team Washington Rugby Club and Division 1 team Baltimore-Chesapeake earlier this week.
In an email Baggetta recounted Sablan’s play and relayed some observations. “PAC played four 20-minute matches in the round-robin scrimmage and Steven Sablan was the only PAC player to play all 80 minutes. Despite being the youngest and smallest player, Steven Sablan played very well.”
He added, “Our first and second choice half-backs were unavailable so Steven got thrown right into the mix. He played 3 matches at half back and the last match at fly half. He scored a try with the first squad and finished up by setting up a try with the fourth squad.”
According to Baggetta Sablan went all-out as he stepped up his game. “He really impressed many of the senior players especially with his tackling and support play,” stated Baggetta. “What was most impressive is that he maintained his composure even though the pace of the matches were much faster than he has ever played.”
Baggetta added that Sablan was able to see and experience first-hand the difference in development and level of play between Guam and US Rugby athletes. “That is the biggest difference between the rugby in the USA and Guam - the pace of the game is much faster,” offered Baggetta. “Players and defenses are much faster so the decision making becomes even tougher.”
Baggetta added that Sablan has a ways to go but has promise. “Steven still has a long way to go but he showed today that he won’t be intimidated or over-awed by the bigger and faster players. His performance today earned him a spot on the PAC Super League Development squad,” stated Baggetta.