Cathy Law
20 February 2023, 12:59 AM
Teams from Victoria, the ACT, the Sydney basin and as far as West Wyalong, Albury and Parkes - and their supporters - will be in town for the Kells Kiama Sevens this Saturday.
“When Ray Cleary and cohorts at Kiama Rugby came up with the Sevens idea and concept 51 year ago, I can only imagine that they would be well impressed with what is now the largest one day domestic Sevens tournament in Australia, offering over $35k in prize money,” says Tournament Director, Mark Bryant.
“From 1973 with 8 teams to 2023 with 44 teams in seven finals that showcase athletic talent as a rugby pathway for the Olympics.”
Weather permitting, Touchdown helicopters will again fly in the Cleary Bros Kiama Sevens Cup and The Women's Sebel Harbourside Kiama Vase at 4.20pm, ahead of the Premier Men’s semifinals at 4.30pm.
The finals will begin at 4.50pm with the Men’s Country Final, and end at 6.50pm with the Premier Winner’s final, which will decide the Kiama Sevens Cup.
Mark Bryant with the Member for Gilmore, Fiona Phillips, Wallaby great Glen Ella and Kells' Michael Hatfield at the official Launch & Game Draw
All competitions within the tournament have matching prize money for womens and mens teams.
Mark wants to thank the volunteers that work tirelessly throughout the year, “The Golden Oldies - The Blowhards - headed up by Mick Cook and Al Marsden, do plenty of work behind the scenes; Peter Judd looks after the bars; and Richard Statham, Jack Smith and Chris Meizer take on the game day manager’s role, which is probably the most stressful position on game day.”
In addition, the Kiama Juniors look after the catering and the Senior club takes on many tasks in the lead up to the tournament.
Saturday 25 February, from 8am
Tickets $15 from kiamasevens.com or at the gate