Kiama Rugby Sevens Celebrates 54 Years with Elite Competition and Community Spirit
The 54th annual Kiama Rugby Sevens is underway, bringing world-class rugby talent and passionate supporters to the Novel South Wales South Coast. The tournament, a long-standing tradition in the region, kicked off with a media launch and sponsors luncheon on February 26, 2026.
Rugby Royalty Endorse Kiama Sevens
Australian rugby stars Charlotte Caslick, Glen Ella, and Scott Bowen lent their support to the event, sharing insights from their decorated careers. Caslick, an Olympic gold medalist from the 2016 Rio Games, highlighted the importance of domestic sevens tournaments in developing the national squad. Ella, a Wallabies legend, reminisced about playing at Kiama with the Randwick teams, noting the tradition of a post-match swim at the nearby beach. Bowen, now a high-performance coach for the national women’s squads, emphasized the benefits of sevens rugby for developing skills applicable to the 15-a-side game.
Tournament Details and Schedule
The 2026 Kiama Sevens features 44 elite teams competing for prizemoney and trophies. Matches began at 8:00 AM on Saturday at Kiama Showground and Chittick Oval, with the women’s final scheduled for 6:30 PM and the premier men’s decider at 6:50 PM. Tickets are available at kiamasevens.com.
Caslick Champions Equal Opportunity
Caslick expressed her enthusiasm for the Kiama Sevens’ commitment to equal prizemoney for both men’s and women’s divisions, stating that increased opportunities for women in sport are crucial for developing depth within Australian rugby, from grassroots to the elite level. She is currently undergoing rehabilitation from a broken ankle sustained last year, with goals to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the 2029 Rugby World Cup on home soil.
A Tradition of Excellence
The Kiama Sevens has a rich history, once serving as a key selection event for the prestigious Hong Kong Sevens. Bowen recalled the tradition of Sydney teams using the tournament to kick-start their season, and Ella fondly remembered the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to combine rugby with a refreshing dip in the ocean. The event continues to attract top talent and provide a significant boost to the local economy and community spirit.
Kiama Sevens: A Family Day Out
The Kiama Sevens is positioned as a great family day out, offering first-class rugby in a scenic coastal setting. The tournament celebrates over 50 years of sevens rugby and continues to be a highlight on the Australian sporting calendar.
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