Jul 30, 2024 - News

Utahn helps U.S. bring home first Olympic medal in women's rugby

Kim Bojórquez

US' Alex Sedrick runs to score a try during the women's bronze medal rugby sevens match between USA and Australia during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis on July 30, 2024. (Photo by CARL DE SOUZA / AFP) (Photo by CARL DE SOUZA/AFP via Getty Images) — US' Alex Sedrick runs to score a try during the women's bronze medal rugby sevens match between USA and Australia. Photo: Carl de Souza/AFP via Getty Images

Alex "Spiff" Sedrick, of Utah, led the U.S. women's rugby team to a bronze medal Tuesday after an impressive sprint in the final seconds of a match against Australia during the Paris Olympics.

Why it matters: It's the first time the U.S. medaled in women's rugby sevens, defeating Australia 14-12 in stunning fashion.

State of play: Sedrick, 26, who attended Herriman High School, broke a tackle with five seconds left, before sprinting to the game-tying score as time expired. She converted the kick shortly after to give the U.S. the win.

What they're saying: "I mean, I'll give my first-born child to 'Spiff' [Sedrick]," teammate Ilona Maher said after according to NBC News. "It was crazy because I was like, 'No way this is happening.' And then for her to have to make the kick, as well — and she's not our kicker."

Zoom out: New Zealand took home the gold medal in the event after knocking off Canada.

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Utahn helps U.S. bring home first Olympic medal in women's rugby

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