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Singapore Rugby Union general manager Sidney Kumar expressed hope that the women’s competition this year will make an impact on young girls and inspire them to play rugby.
Mr Kumar told CNA that the Singapore Sevens plays an integral role in the country’s rugby scene. The union also works closely with government agency Sport Singapore to develop a high-performance programme around the tournament.
“Ultimately, if you talk about aspirations in the medium to long term, of course, it will be a dream to have one of our teams represent at the Sevens circuit, right?” he added.
“I believe that will come – we just have to be patient and get our players and our structures in line for that.”
TURF GRASS THAT LASTS LONGER
This year’s Singapore Sevens will also use a type of turf grass that was successfully trialled during last year’s event. It has been in place since mid-April for the athletics season.
This grass, called Stadium Zoysia, will be used for Monday’s National School Games 2024 Rugby A and B Division Cup finals as well. The National Stadium was the first stadium globally to begin using it in 2023.
The National Stadium’s microclimate has proven beneficial for Stadium Zoysia, extending its usage by as much as 40 per cent.
The quality of the pitch will be crucial for players’ safety and the integrity of the competition, given that the set this year is expected to be more intense.
World Sevens general manager Sam Pinder said it will be a “huge and exciting” year for the sport, with all eyes set to turn to the Paris Olympics in July.
He told CNA: “We’ve got some of the superstars of the women’s game playing Sevens and these athletes are phenomenal … They’re certainly bringing a certain element of flair and excitement to all of the matches and to the event itself, adding to it extremely well.
“With the closeness of the stands, the fans are going to be obviously right on the action and we’re looking forward to a hugely successful sort of event.”
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