Tim Ryland and Matt Price are proud Nittany Lions. But when the two rugby standouts step on the pitch this week, they will be presidents.

Ryland and Price, both fifth-year seniors and members of the Penn State rugby team, will represent their school and country when they compete in the President's Day Cup, a charity rugby match held in Leicestershire, England this weekend.

The duo, alongside semi-professionals from various English clubs, will take on the Warwickshire All-Stars as members of the Leicestershire Presidents.

"Obviously, the best rugby in the world is played in England. This is a great chance to see how we measure up," Ryland said.

During the fall, Ryland and Price helped lead the No. 2 Ruggers to a perfect 9-0 record and the No. 1 seed in the Mid Atlantic Rugby Football Union. That's when the pair caught the eye of a visiting researcher, who had close ties with the Leicestershire club, and were selected to play.

"First of all, I am pretty darn honored. I was really surprised when I was informed of being selected," Price said. "I am lucky to play with some of the best competition in the world, and it is a great chance to show what I got."

The trip to the United Kingdom will also be a homecoming for Price, who has family roots in that part of the world. Penn State's starting flanker has always had the urge to play in front of his relatives and will be focused on using that motivation to make a statement.

"I have always had aspirations of going abroad and this is a great opportunity to broaden my horizons of rugby," he said. "The best thing that could come out of this experience would be that I play an amazing game and get an offer to play over there."

One reason the two Ruggers were selected was because of their on-field versatility. Ryland, a center, and Price are able to effectively play multiple positions, which is a valuable asset when competing on a select squad. Although, Penn State head coach Don Ferrell knows that isn't the only reason.

"Both are tremendous leaders on and off the field. They do whatever is asked of them. They lead by example and are great role models for the younger players. We are lucky to have that type of leadership," he said.

"They are also true students of the game. Both are constantly striving to improve their game, whether they are watching film or what not. Their ability, skill and overall intensity are a big reason why they were selected."

As Ryland and Price compete overseas, their teammates will play in the squad's final tune-up match before the postseason. And while the Ruggers will be focused on the task at hand, their thoughts will be with their two friends.

"We wish them the best of luck," Ferrell said. "Both are outstanding players that will represent Penn State and the United States well."