Rugby Magazine’s first digital issue is now available. Existing print subscribers and RUGBYMag’s Premier members now have exclusive access to the online publication, which continues to bring readers in-depth features, profiles and photo galleries on the American game.

The Summer 2011 issue revolves around the Rugby World Cup, but also reviews the country’s domestic championships since spring; national teams’ various international tests and tournaments; and upcoming events around the country. Below are some highlights:

USA at the Rugby World Cup: Just Win? No, Even Losses Matter.
“This year, 30 rugby players from all walks of life try to find a moment or two of glory in a world rugby tournament that will crown someone else as champions. Truly, if the Eagles even make the quarterfinals, it will be a huge upset.”

Rugby World Cup Preview 
Pool by pool previews, players to watch, schedules, history and more.

“As usual, New Zealand is the front-runner not only in Pool A, but the entire tournament. But all is not perfect in All Black land. Through 2010 and into mid-August, New Zealand had won 16 of 17, but stumbled in two Tri-Nations matches just before the World Cup.”

GoffonRugby: Is the World Cup dream the right one?
Alex Goff encourages USA Rugby to think bigger than four-year RWC cycles.

“That means, more than anything, a holistic, long-term approach where winning even one game in the 2015 World Cup is secondary to setting up a system whereby we can see how today’s middle-schooler will get to be an Eagle in 10 years.”

That RWC Feeling: Former Eagle Brian Hightower remembers the highs and lows of the ’99 Rugby World Cup.

“Usually the hard part about tackling a front-rower is that you know it’s going to leave a mark, but I had a difficult time just catching Mr. [Keith] Wood. When he ran by me, I was astonished to see the number on his back. He scored four tries that day. One of them was from a chip kick that he chased down in the corner. The only reason I don’t feel bad that I couldn’t tackle him was that nobody else could either. He was unstoppable.”

Rugby Magazine will return to a monthly frequency by 2012, so if you’d like to access the eZine, become a member of Premier subscription service. To learn more, visit here or to subscribe go here.