One of the revelations – although not a surprise – of the past two IRB Sevens World Series tournaments is that Mike Palefau is back.

He never left, of course, and only had to pass on national team opportunities because of school, work, and family. Nobody ever said Palefau, who helped Las Vegas to a 2010 national DI club championship and the Utah Warriors to a successful launch in the Super League, couldn’t play. And he’s proven that again.

In two 7s tournaments where the USA were inconsistent, Palefau was one player determined to take charge. He seemed ready to attack at any opportunity, and challenged defenders to stop him.

The result has been six tries in 12 games to lead the team.

“I'm feeling good and have no injuries,” Palefau told RUGBYMag.com. “I'm definitely a lot more comfortable at center and enjoy playing there.”

Now fans will want to see Palefau’s confidence reflected in the rest of the team. Some have shown it, but not all at the same time. Palefau expects it.

“The guys spirits are pretty high and everyone is fired up for the weekend,” he said. “I feel all the games in our pool are winnable, can't wait to play.”