The JR Blog

Here are 7 reasons why I think 7 aside rugby is going to increase the player population and exposure of Rugby through out the world.

1. Easy to coach and referee

7 aside rugby is easy to coach and referee which makes it highly attractive to junior or entry level rugby coaches and schools. Parents and teachers don’t have to worry about the scrum safety issues which generally are perceived as dangerous and labelled a no go zone in primary school circles. The open and flowing style of the game lends itself to young players and in turn makes coaching the game a pleasure. Personally i believe that rugby in Primary School should be 7 aside rugby and if players want more they join their local club who can then coach the technicalities of 15 aside rugby.

2. Easy to watch

This is a given, as we have seen the growing public attraction to the 7s circuit around the world. Hong Kong 7s has set the bench mark, closely followed by the Dubai 7s tournaments. The fast and unpredictable nature of the game lends itself to good viewing, top that with the short duration of the game you have a winning formula.

3. Suits countries with limited resources

The game suits countries with limited resources. Personal costs are lower, equipment costs are reduced and most importantly you only need 14 good players to have a chance of jagging a match or two. The luck in the game can turn the match on the drop of a ball (excuse the pun), just look at Kenya this year.

4. Kids love it

It’s the perfect game for kids, they can run, kick, chase and tackle until they blue in the face. There is plenty of space which helps them feel a little less threatened and more likely to have a go. It’s also a game that can be played up at the local park with limited numbers.

5. Fits easily into time restraints

This is probably one of the key advantages of 7 aside rugby, it can be played quickly. Perfect for the school system in which you generally only have 45 minutes to play a sport. Outside of the school system competitions can be run in half or a full days and all teams can have their fare share of game time.

6. Easy to sell

The Olympic committee aren’t going to have their work cut out selling the tickets to this tournament. Here’s a scenario, you have the choice between the 1500m distance running, discus and 7 aside rugby what are you going to choose? Not only that in the time it takes them to run the marathon you could have watched approximately 10 games of 7 aside rugby.

7. Its in the Olympics!!

Here we go every country in the world will have the chance to enter a team in the Olympics to play rugby, what an impact this will have on rugby. The sport will be introduced to countries that have never played it before, let alone heard of it. Each National Rugby Organisation or Association will be able to apply for grants from their government and more than likely receive them to increase the nations rugby skill level in order to win a medal. Naturally this directly or indirectly will increase the exposure of rugby around the world.

I don’t know about you but I am in 7th heaven!!!