What is Rugby 7s?
Rugby 7s, also known as Rugby Sevens, is a fast-paced, shorter version of rugby union
It features seven players per team instead of the usual 15, and the matches are played over two seven-minute halves (with a one-minute halftime), making it a much quicker game than traditional rugby
Played on a full-size pitch but with only seven players; sevens is a high intensity and highly skilled format
It has been included in the Olympics since 2016 and is Governed by World Rugby.
An Olympic Sport
Here are some of Rugby 7s key features:
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Smaller teams: Seven players per side, instead of 15
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Shorter game duration: Matches last around 14 minutes (two 7-minute halves)
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Larger playing space: Despite fewer players, the game is played on a full-size rugby pitch (100 meters long and 70 meters wide)
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High scoring: With more open space, Rugby 7s is known for fast breaks, open play, and frequent tries
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Tournaments: Rugby 7s is often played in tournament formats, where teams play multiple games over a single day or weekend. The most prestigious series is the World Rugby Sevens Series, held annually across multiple countries. The Olympic Games added Rugby 7s in 2016 and has been a regular sport at the games ever since
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Sussex representation: We're proud that Team GB has included several men's and women's players from Sussex, representing the county at the highest level internationally
Watch the World Rugby Explainer Video
Stars from Sussex
Many notable international rugby 7s players started their rugby careers in Sussex including
(pictured from L-R)
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Tom Mitchell (East Grinstead, TeamGB 7s)
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Jess Breach (Pulborough, England XV & 7s)
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Tom Bowen (Lewes, England 7s)
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Amy Wilson-Hardy (Worthing, TeamGB 7s)
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...and more!
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Will you spot the next 7s star at the Sussex 7s Series?
The Sussex 7s Series
Teams battle it out during several legs of intense competition – as music, entertainment, and wonderful food, combine to create great family-friendly outdoor events
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Each host venue will welcome rugby fans and newcomers to the sport, sharing their club’s history and uniqueness – providing fun, a friendly atmosphere, and memorable experiences for the competition and its guests
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Who will win the Sussex 7s Series and emerge as heroes in 2025?
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