The Kiama Rugby Sevens media launch has set the stage for another thrilling tournament, with an extra challenge for teams to make a difference. This year, each team has been asked to raise $1,000 each to donate to Hearts in Rugby Union, a charity dedicated to supporting players who have suffered life changing injuries.

If all 44 teams reach their target, an impressive $44,000 will be raised to help injured players navigate their new reality.

Rugby is a game built on mateship and fair play, but sometimes, freak accidents leave players with injuries that alter their lives forever. The physical, emotional, and financial burden can be overwhelming, and Hearts in Rugby Union aims to provide ongoing support for those in need.

The launch event welcomed key figures from the rugby community and local government. Mayor Cameron McDonald, Councillor Matt Brown, Patrick Schmidt representing major sponsor Kells, and representatives from Destination Kiama all voiced their strong support for the tournament and the charity initiative.

Mark Bryant, the driving force behind the Kiama Rugby Sevens for decades, was praised for his dedication to making the event a standout on the sporting calendar.

Mayor Cameron McDonald with Mark Bryant. Mayor McDonald acknowledged the generosity of the sponsors

Rugby stars past and present were on hand to celebrate the launch, including dual Olympian Dietrich Roache, who spoke about his journey in the sport and his ambitions beyond Sevens. 

Mark Bryant interviewed dual Olympian Dietrich Roache, who spoke about his journey in the sport and his ambitions beyond Sevens. 

Former Wallaby Richard Tombs also addressed the crowd, reflecting on his playing days and his current role as General Manager of Hearts in Rugby Union.

Richard joined Hearts in Rugby Union in September 2021. He represented the Wallabies from 1988 to 1996, earning five test caps and playing a role in the 1991 World Cup-winning squad and the 1992 Bledisloe Cup victory.

Richard Tombs personal experience with life altering injury has made him a passionate advocate for injured players

Unfortunately, in 2018, Richard suffered a spinal cord injury while playing as a goalkeeper in an over-35s soccer match, which left him a tetraplegic.

His personal experience with life altering injury has made him a passionate advocate for injured players, and his deep understanding of the NDIS system allows him to offer guidance and support to those in need.

Bryant and his team are calling on local businesses to get behind the fundraising effort.

 Sponsors and supporters can contribute by backing individual teams or making direct donations to the cause. To donate please visit the website here

Posters and promotional materials are available for workplaces, gyms, and local venues to spread the message.

The Kiama Rugby Sevens has long been a highlight of the region’s sporting calendar, bringing together elite and grassroots players for a weekend of high-energy competition. 

With the addition of the charity partnership, this year’s tournament will be about more than just rugby - it will be about the rugby community standing together to support its own.

The main event will take place on Saturday 22 February at Kiama Showground, promising a day of top-tier rugby action, community spirit, and a shared commitment to making a difference.