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In March 80-1 outsiders Wales marched to the Rugby World Cup Sevens title by beating Argentina 19-12 in the final in Dubai.

It was a remarkable achievement, especially considering they lost one of their pool matches to none other than the South American side they beat to take the Melrose Cup.

Despite the historic victory, however, Wales only managed to finish 10th overall on the IRB Sevens World Series – but all but six of their 24 points came following the RWC Sevens.

In order to continue to build on the success of the Wales Sevens side that won the RWC Sevens for the first time, it was announced on Tuesday that the current head coach Paul John has been signed on for at least two more years in charge.

This year John’s side will also profit from the announcement that up to 10 players will be contracted as core Sevens squad members for the IRB Series this season.

Core Sevens squad

A mixture of experienced Sevens players and young players will benefit from the exposure and rugby development this will provide – following in similar suit to a recent announcement that Scotland Sevens will offer three professional contracts ahead of this year's IRB Series.

For Wales it was agreed that for the first time player release would be officially sanctioned by contract to agree the release of regional squad players for Wales international Sevens duty.

The four regions will release up to two players each to a core Wales Sevens squad which could be made up to 10 players with some included from other leagues or structures.

Subject to selection the core squad players will travel to all eight of the IRB Series, with members of a wider Sevens squad completing the 12 man group on each occasion.

David Jenkins, will continue as team manager, with the Wales Sevens assistant coaches to be announced in due course.

WRU Head of Rugby Performance and Development, Joe Lydon, who was recently seen at the Middlesex Sevens helping to coach Samurai International reach the final, believes this is a step in the right direction for Wales’ Sevens side.

"The appointment of Paul John as full-time Sevens coach will give Sevens the focus and impetus it deserves, not only following the side's success, but with its projected forthcoming status as an Olympic sport going forward,” said Lydon.

“Contracting a core squad is a vital step in providing stability and consistency of selection, and in the development of young players for the professional game in Wales."

John has also been appointed as a full-time member of the National Academy staff, concentrating on Sevens coaching and providing additional skills coaching within the Academy set-up following WRU National Academy manager, Phil Davies, outlining plans to enhance the development of potential elite players, coached and match officials.