Pella native, and USA Rugby member Paul Emerick, recently announced his retirement from the game due to an ankle injury he suffered last November against Romania. Emerick spent a decade on the international squad, including appearances in three Rugby World Cups. Emerick also played professionally in England, Italy, Northern Ireland and Wales over eight seasons. The 33 year old is reluctant to retire but hopes to be remembered as a guy who played his guts out for his team.