Recent Cal grad Colin Hawley will join a half-dozen other top-flight US ruggers in international sevens play broadcast from Hong Kong this weekend. Hawley starred as a versatile back in his Cal career, as comfortable in the center slots as he was at fullback.

NBC's Universal Sports outlet will begin live coverage of the IRB Sevens World Series at 9 p.m. Pacific Time Saturday (check your local cable provider's line-up for a channel location). 

The Series is an eight-venue international contest featuring some of the most dynamic rugby union play in the world. It's the style of rugby that's being introduced into the 2016 Olympiad.

So far, in the first day of pool play, the USA Eagles defeated Japan 24-19. The Yanks will next kick off against China followed by a face-off against Pool B powerhouse England for a chance at the Cup round.

Wags are forecasting the American team to better their last outing -- winning the shield in the USA leg at Las Vegas -- and make it to the bowl round against France. (In sevens play, the hardware ranks are : cup, plate, bowl and shield).

Following the Hong Kong matches, the Series moves to Adelaide, Australia. Play in London, England and Edinburgh, Scotland then wraps up the Series.

Universal Sports Rugby Sevens Coverage Schedule (Pacific Time)

Saturday, Mar. 26:  9 p.m. - 4:30 a.m. (Sunday)

Sunday, Mar. 27:  3 p.m. - 5 p.m.; 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.; 11 p.m. - 1 a.m. (Monday)