Blitzboks' esteemed coach, Philip Snyman, is set to embark on a new journey in the world of rugby sevens. Come September, Snyman will spearhead Clan Taran in the debut season of the Ultimate Sevens Championship, marking a significant transition in his illustrious career.
Following a triumphant stint with the Blitzboks, where he secured consecutive SVNS World Championship victories and an Olympic bronze medal at Paris, Snyman's expertise will now benefit a new squad on the circuit. The Ultimate Sevens Championship is scheduled to commence on September 5 in Madrid, before moving on to Cardiff, Biarritz, and London.
The Ultimate Sevens recently unveiled the leaders for its six franchises. Among them are notable figures like Shannon Fraser, former Australia sevens coach, who will take the reins at Albion Athletic, and Kelly Brazier, a Rugby World Cup-winning Black Fern, who has been named head coach of Atlantic Nova. Meanwhile, María Ribera of Spain, with her rich background in dual-international play and coaching Las Leonas Sevens, will lead Foudre Bleue.
New Zealand's Crystal Kaua, known for her success with Chiefs Manawa and the Brazilian women’s sevens squad, will coach Pacific Current. Completing the lineup is Spain’s men’s sevens coach, Paco Hernández, whose appointment rounds off a roster of distinguished coaching talents.
The upcoming championship promises an exciting format, where each coach will manage both men's and women's teams. This innovative approach not only highlights the growing inclusivity in the sport but also elevates the competitive landscape across the four host cities.
Philip Snyman expressed his enthusiasm about the new role and the unique challenges it brings.
"Stepping into this new chapter with Clan Taran is exhilarating. I'm eager to bring my experience and passion for sevens rugby to the table, and hopefully, lead the team to great success in this groundbreaking championship."
With the teams gearing up for the inaugural season, the Ultimate Sevens Championship is set to redefine the boundaries of professional sevens rugby, promising thrilling matches and showcasing emerging talents alongside seasoned veterans.
This bold expansion of sevens rugby into a European-based tournament format reflects the sport's global appeal and the evolving landscape of rugby sevens, as noted by commentators within the sports community.
As September draws near, all eyes will be on Madrid for the historic kickoff of the Ultimate Sevens Championship, where Philip Snyman and his fellow coaches will vie for supremacy in this thrilling new chapter of rugby sevens.
