Kelter leads USA Eagles rugby 7s into quarterfinals in France

Eagle River’s Alev Kelter saw significant playing time in all three rugby games for the USA women’s Eagles as they clinched a spot in the quarterfinals at a HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series tournament in Clermont-Ferrand, France.

The Americans beat Ireland and Japan before falling to reigning Olympic silver medalist New Zealand in a 19-14 loss in Saturday’s third and final game in pool play.

Kelter, of Chugiak High fame, accounted for 29 percent of Team USA’s scoring on the day with 17 of 59 points.

The 26-year-old Olympian came off the bench to score 12 points in a 33-5 win over Japan on two tries and a conversion.

The 5-foot-6 Alaska bruiser plays with a physical style that makes her a natural on the rugby pitch. Her background in hockey, soccer and flag football only helps.

She also scored a try against New Zealand as the Eagles went toe-to-toe with one of the best sevens squad in the world.

Kelter and the Eagles will take on defending Olympic gold medalist Australia in Sunday’s quarterfinals.