24 confirmed for international 7s

Sixteen men’s and eight women’s rugby sevens teams have registered for the 2010 International Sevens Tournament, presented by CITC, and scheduled for November 4 to 6.

The men’s division has been extended to cater for the huge interest in the growing event.

The Waimiha Rebels will be back this year to defend their 2009 title and will compete against Araura Enua (CI), Avatiu Rugby Club (CI), Club Raro Stormers (CI), College Rifles (NZ), General Transport Tabusoro (CI), Hastings Rugby & Sport (NZ), Melbourne Valley Reds (Aus), Ngatangiia/Matavera Flying Dragons (CI), Lotonuu (CI), Porirua Magic (NZ), Tauae Bulls (NZ), Te Ara Wheke (NZ), The Wests Roosters (NZ), Titikaveka Rehab Razorbacks (CI) and the Vikings (CI).

The women’s competition of the tournament is going to be a cracker this year with eight strong teams to contest the division.

The Rehab Ravens, led by locals Kelani Matapo and Anna Raina, will return as strong favourites having won in 2008.

Locals T&M Crushers have reached the finals over the last three years but never won the title.

Newcomers College Rifles, Hastings Rugby and Sport and the Napier Tech Rugby all boast current and past national and provincial representatives and will be strong contenders.

Local based players have had an early opportunity to hone their rugby skills through the sevens and 10s domestic competition so expect some tougher competition and better skills from local teams Avatiu Motor Centre Eels and Club Raro Stormers.

The women’s teams are the Avatiu Motor Centre Eels (CI), College Rifles (NZ), Club Raro Stormers (CI), Hastings Rugby & Sports (NZ), Napier Tech Rugby (NZ), T&M Crushers (CI), Titikaveka Rehab Ravens and the Waitakere Nesians (NZ).