The Glendale Raptors are in the midst of a remarkable season, going undefeated and scoring no less than 41 points in each fixture so far. We were recently able to catch up with the Colorado club's captain and hooker, Zach Fenoglio, to discuss his team's success this year, his experience playing against fellow USA Eagles teammates, and his preparations on match day.

FloRugby: As a top-tier club, Glendale has set the bar for elite teams across the country. How do you help prepare your teammates each week, knowing you have a target on your back?

Zach Fenoglio: We've set our model for this year that we are our own toughest critics. There are a lot of great teams out there, but we have to hold ourselves accountable and be honest with one another. By holding ourselves to a higher standard we look to bring out the best within us.

With so many decisive wins this season, what has been the focus in training?

Every week our approach is the same: continue to develop as a team and improve our pattern of play as a unit.

What is it like playing against some of your teammates on the USA rugby squad?

I love it. It's what makes rugby such a great game. You start playing long enough and you're friends end up on the other side of the ball. It's great to see old friends and play against them for a change.

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How tough is it to fly in and play a game the next day? Does that affect your play?

That's the nature of being an athlete. You have to adapt to the situation and make the best of it. There's an advantage to playing at home for many reasons, but when you're on the road you have to get past those obstacles.

Is there anything in particular that you do before every match?

For home games, I like to have a nice breakfast with my wife. I'll have a little stretch or primer workout to get the body ready, and then I'll listen to some music to start getting my mind right for the game.

Do you study film when preparing to play a team?

Absolutely. Film preparation is one of the biggest things you can do, and it doesn't take a toll on the body.

If you could give your past-self advice about playing rugby and pursuing that as a career, what would it be?

Go overseas for a year during college. The best part about rugby is it is a global game and a huge family. Go experience other cultures and see the world, get better at your game, and continue to develop as a rugby player. Oh, and fitness! It's something that can always be better and worked on.