The world of rugby is abuzz with the news of a new short-form sevens circuit, Ultimate Sevens, set to launch in September. This innovative venture aims to provide a platform for players and coaches, offering both playing time and financial opportunities. The circuit will feature four events in Madrid, Cardiff, Biarritz, and London, with 10-minute knockout matches and optional timeouts, creating a fast-paced and exciting format. The launch of Ultimate Sevens comes as a response to the recent scrapping of Great Britain's full-time sevens programme, which has had a significant impact on the country's rugby scene.
The GB Sevens team, once a formidable force, has faced challenges due to the lack of consistent training and the constant rotation of players. Abbie Brown, a key player, expresses frustration at the situation, highlighting the team's struggle to compete with the world's best. The team's performance has suffered, with both the men's and women's teams finishing last in the top tier of the Svns global series. As a result, they will now compete in the second tier, a move that has raised concerns about Britain's ability to keep up with the rest of the world.
Brown and her team-mate Ellie Boatman have had to seek alternative avenues to support their rugby careers. Brown has taken on coaching and mentoring roles, as well as a 15-a-side contract with Loughborough Lightning. However, she continues to search for sevens opportunities. Boatman, on the other hand, has ventured further, playing in Japan's domestic sevens circuit for the Mie Pearls. The situation has led to a wave of talent joining Ultimate Sevens, including 15 of Brown's GB team-mates, as well as international stars like Australia's Maddison Levi and Argentina's Luciano Gonzalez.
Tom Mitchell, the sport and innovations director of Ultimate Sevens, emphasizes the circuit's role in contributing to the sport's growth and success. He aims to complement the existing calendar rather than disrupt it, providing additional opportunities for players and coaches. The event's launch is expected to bring a much-needed boost to the sport, with the final event taking place at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford on September 24th. The circuit's potential to attract more players and create a sustainable future for sevens is a topic of discussion, as it continues to draw back 15-a-side stars, even if they are now in the stands.
In conclusion, Ultimate Sevens presents an exciting opportunity to revive and grow the sevens format, offering a platform for players and coaches to thrive. The circuit's innovative format and star-studded cast are set to create a buzz in the rugby world, providing a much-needed boost to the sport and potentially reshaping the future of sevens.
