CRU plans to host 7s annually

THE Capital Rugby Union (CRU) is looking at hosting its sevens tournament as an annual event and not just a one-off, says tournament director Paul Joseph.
CRU hosted its first two-leg tournament at Bava Park a fortnight ago. The first leg was the junior tournament which featured Under-17s, U19s and U21 boys.
The second leg was an open invitational which saw 26 men’s and four women’s teams take part.
The invitational also attracted two teams from outside centres – Madang’s Kalibobo Gunners and Gulf’s Poi Mafus.
Joseph said it was CRU’s maiden tournament and they were looking to make it an annual event from next year.
“We came up with this tournament to grow the sevens game and create an avenue for juniors, men and women to showcase their skills,” Joseph said.
“The games were played into the night. Players from outside have never had a feel of playing under the lights and it was a good experience for them. Certainly, we have seen a lot of good talent on display in this tournament. Now we are looking at securing a sponsor as we push for the tournament to be an annual event.
“We didn’t get any cooperate backings for this tournament. CRU is used its own money to host the tournaments.
“The teams that travelled from Gulf and Madang also had no sponsors but raised their own funds to take part in the tournament.”