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Canada coach Morgan Williams is hoping his side’s unconventional style can once again surprise teams on the IRB Sevens World Series.

The Canadians played their first tournament of the season in Wellington last weekend, qualifying for the Cup quarter-finals and are now preparing for the upcoming USA Sevens in Las Vegas starting on Saturday.

On day one at the NZI Sevens they beat both Argentina and France in dramatic fashion, with the feat all the more impressive due to the average age of the side being only 21.

“I was really surprised by the guys. They played out of their skins, especially when you look at the age of the guys,” said Williams speaking to UR7s.

Williams points out that the youthful exuberance of Canada’s new side is refreshing with his players willing to follow his game-plan at all coasts.

“Everyone bought into the system. We have a fantastic team unity, especially with the younger guys. There are no egos because they are so young.

“We might not be the most talented, skilled or fastest team, but we are determined and chase everything. We play an unorthodox style and hope to catch teams off guard.”

Canada faces a tough examination at the weekend facing Fiji, South Africa, and North American rivals and hosts, USA. Williams is hoping sides continue to take his youngsters lightly for a second week running.

“It's a very hard group there is no doubt about it. Looking at the way we did last week, we are trying to catch these guys off guard. The stadium is narrow which actually caters for us as there will not be too much space for the opposition flyers.”

Canada prepared for these two legs on the IRB Series by taking part at Punta del Este (Urugauy) and Suva Rugby Festival (Fiji), with the coach adamant it has helped develop the side. Despite some of Williams’ experienced overseas professionals being available for Canada’s next tournament on the Series, the Hong Kong Sevens, the coach wants to keep a young flavour to the side.

“Bringing guys like DTH van der Merwe, Phil MacKenzie, Pat Evans, and Justin Mensah-Coker back could be a real bonus for Hong Kong. But it is important we keep the young guys around to.

“For London and Edinburgh some of our professionals will not be available due to 15-a-side commitments so that will be a young side also. When some of our guys turn 21 or 22, I want them to already be pretty experienced on the IRB Sevens.”

Williams also confirmed to UR7s that he will be taking a side to Kenya in June for the annual Safari Sevens.

Catch up on all the action from USA Sevens this weekend (13-14 Feb) with UR7s’ Live Text Commentary from Las Vegas.

Got a Rugby Sevens question? Want to know more about the IRB Sevens World Series or any aspect of the sport? Former England captain Andy Vilk will be offering his expert opinion in answering all your queries in the aftermath of the USA Sevens. Send all your questions to Andy by emailing press@ur7s.com