Hundreds of young Otago rugby players faced off yesterday in a longstanding tradition of friendly rivalry at the Taieri Rugby Football Club grounds.
The 62nd annual Taieri junior sevens tournament drew about 70 teams from throughout Dunedin and further afield to Mosgiel’s Peter Johnstone Park.
Clutha player Ollie Sapstead (12), said it was his first time taking part in the seven-a-side tournament.
It was about "playing some games and having some fun," he said.
Dunedin Sharks player Maddy Steenkamp (12) was also taking part for the first time, although she had been playing rugby for about three years.
It was a fun experience, she said.
She could be competitive when up against a good team, and her favourite part of the game was probably tackling, she said.
Parents and supporters lined the sides of the the 14 playing fields, some yelling encouragement or waving flags.
Talai Mapusa was there to support son Seilala Nabalagi (7), who played for the Dunedin Goblin Sharks.
It was "awesome" to see the young players come together as a team for lots of reasons, she said.
"It’s about learning skills on and off the field — they’re learning about looking after each other."
Taieri Junior Rugby Club president Aaron Whitley said the tournament was about enjoying the rugby season with some friendly rivalry.
"We just love seeing all the other clubs coming to Taieri to share the day with us.
"The highlight for me is seeing the enthusiasm of the kids, everyone has a smile on their face and they’re having fun."
Turnout was solid, with about 70 teams taking part ranging from those in year 2 to those in year 8.
The tournament was able to happen year after year because of the support of club parents, he said.
