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With less than four weeks to go until Rugby 7’s debuts at the Olympic Games, the organizers have unveiled the balls to be used in the competition. Involved will be five countries from our region: Argentina, Brazil and the USA will compete in both the men’s and women’s circuit while Canada and Colombia will play in the women’s.
With the dates for the men’s and women’s Rugby 7’s not coinciding the sport will have the opportunity of a larger time frame in Rio. From August 6-11 rugby will be played at the Estadio del Deodoro.
It is to be the debut appearance of Rugby 7’s at the Olympic Games and the first time any form of rugby has been played in 92 years. The last time rugby was involved saw the USA men winning Gold at the 1924 Paris Olympics.
Rugby’s return will see France vs Spain as the opening fixture. It is to be a women’s match with kick-off scheduled for 11am. .
The rugby ball to be used in Rio is a Synergie XV-6 and it has specifically been developed for Rugby 7’s. The developers designed it to be more effective on attack. It is to facilitate a rapid game style with high-pace passing.
Brazil is the most recent competitor to announce which athletes will be playing in Rio. South-western neighbors Argentina are to do so on Friday.
