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The Munster Branch have officially launched the third annual Meteor Munster Seven’s Cup which will take place this Saturday (22nd) in Highfield RFC, Cork City.

Every county in the province will be represented as thirteen of Munster’s top clubs, including AIB League champions Shannon and defending Munster Sevens champions Garryowen battle it out for the 2009 title.

Adding to the competition will be sixteen junior squads as well as seven ladies club teams taking to the pitches in their respective divisions.

With the IOC recommending Rugby Sevens to be included in the 2016 Olympics last Thursday, these kind of tournaments could be taking on another level of significance, with players out to impress.

With England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland obviously teaming up if the announcement goes the right way in October, Ireland would be alone.

The Ireland Sevens side demonstrated their ability at the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Dubai in March reaching the Bowl final where they lost to Zimbabwe 17-14 and they also beat Australia in their third pool match 24-12. 

Tournaments like this, as well as others like the Midland Sevens which held its inaugural tournament on Saturday in Athlone, will only do the sport in Ireland good.

“It is fantastic to see both Munster Rugby and Meteor coming together to support the domestic club game. Sevens rugby is an ideal platform for both adult retention and the talent development of provincial players.

We look forward to showcasing the skill and ability that these players have to offer at this year’s Meteor Munster Sevens Tournament,” said Ultan O’Callaghan, Munster Rugby Provincial Domestic Game Manager.

There has been a significant increase in participation this year with over 70 matches scheduled and 30 referees needed to officiate the biggest Meteor Munster Sevens competition to date. In addition to the action packed schedule there is a host of family entertainment planned including a bouncy castle and a sizzling BBQ all accompanied by a live DJ playing all your summer favourites.

Commenting at the launch Amanda Carroll, Meteor’s Head of Communications said,

“Once again we are proud to sponsor such a high calibre sporting event that recognises and supports the wealth of talent that Munster has to offer and who knows maybe some of the junior players will be lining up for the Irish Sevens team in the 2016 Olympics!”

Senior Teams: Bruff, Clonakilty, Dolphin, Highfield, Nenagh Ormond, Old Crescent, Shannon, Sundays Well, Thomond, UCC, UL Bohemians, Garryowen and Young Munster.

Junior Teams: Cobh, Abbeyfeale, Cashel, Kanturk, Waterpark, Kilfeacle, Richmond, Youghal, Ballincollig, Bandon, Castleisland, Crosshaven, Bantry, Douglas, Killarney and Carrigaline.

Women's Teams: Clonmel, Ballincollig, UL Bohs, Thurles, Shannon, Highfield and Kinsale.