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The best of New Zealand's schoolboy rugby talent will be on show at the annual Condor Sevens in Auckland later this month. Sixteen schools from as far away as Wellington are expected to line up on Sunday 28 March vying for both the national title and a place in the New Zealand Secondary Schools Sevens squad.

For some, the tournament also offers a potential Olympic career.

"The decision to include Rugby Sevens in the 2016 Olympics is a real boost for the tournament," said Condors RFC President Gordon Nimmo. “The Condor Sevens is always a showcase of new talent, with more than 25 future All Blacks having played at the tournament, so for these young men the Condor Sevens could be the first step on the path to Olympic gold.

“The day also produces exciting, competitive rugby with a lot of great skills on display and this year is certain to be no different."

The tournament was first contested in 1985 and schools from around the country have won the Condor Cup, including recent winners Gisborne Boys’ High School, Hamilton Boys’ High School and Mt Albert Grammar School, who defeated Wesley College 12-5 in last year’s final.

Former Auckland Sevens coach Ramsey Tomokino will help select the national side at the conclusion of the tournament.

"Many of the players that will be in the Olympics in Rio 2016 are still at school now, so this is a great opportunity to impress,” said Tomokino. "Rugby Sevens is great for exposing young players to higher honours and for teaching all the skills needed to be a professional.

“Two years ago Kimami Sitauti was playing in this tournament and he is now in the full Australian side travelling the world even though he is still only 18," he continued. “And Rocky Khan, who recently captained MAGS and made the tournament team, has travelled to many countries and was named player of the tournament at a Sevens tournament in Darwin earlier in the year.”

The tournament, staged again at the Grammar Carlton RFC at Cornwall Park, will also be a poignant day for the club as it is the first without well known rugby identity, Ron Bragg. The long time Club Captain of the Condors and club member for 23 years passed away in June 2009.

The final sixteen teams and the match schedule will be confirmed the week prior to the tournament.

For further information:

Ramsey Tomokino 021 416 791

Eddie Mei (Condors RFC) 0274 870 056

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