Munster Age-Grade 7s Programme

The Munster Rugby Development Department have launched an exciting new age-grade 7s programme to enhance participation and develop the skill set of players across the province.

A 7s team made up of Munster sub-academy players will begin a training programme in preparation for the Kinsale 7s and Amsterdam 7s tournaments later this year, while a Munster U18 Girls 7s team will be selected for an Interprovincial tournament in Dublin.

Emerging Schools 7s blitzes will take place over the coming days in both Cork and Limerick with U17/U18 boys teams participating in a bid to qualify for an Emerging Schools 7s tournament.

Selected U18 boys from schools and clubs across the province will form six teams and participate in a Munster Super 7s Series, which will culminate in a finals day tournament at CIT.

A further nine schools have also taken part in a 7s tournament at Thomond Park.

Munster Rugby Technical Skills Development Coach, Mike Pettman, said: “It’s about increasing participation to develop the skills of players coming through the age-grade system within the province.

“7s is a wonderful vehicle to help improve skills and decision-making ability. The game will teach the importance of working off the ball to create space quickly.

“More importantly, the players will have opportunities to execute the cornerstone skills under pressure in both structured and unstructured space.

“Through my role with the Rugby Development Department, I’m looking forward to working with the various squads, helping players develop their technical and tactical ability as well as their skills in game situations.”