Organiser Jarrod Lipscombe said the growth and popularity of the sport across the world was a major factor in the decision to include the junior competition.

“We had received interest from younger players in the past and rugby sevens is now an Olympic sport and more kids will continue to be interested in playing it,” Lipscombe explained.

The entries for the tournament were filled quickly with 24 men’s, 12 women’s and seven U16s sides competing.

The majority of the clubs from the Mid North Coast will be represented.

“It is a great chance to see how the other clubs in our competition are shaping up,” Lipscombe said.

“The boys get to have a run and the games are played in good spirits.”

There is $14,000 in prize money up for grabs across the three divisions with $5000 for first place in the men’s, $3000 in the women’s and $500 in the U16s.

The Kempsey Cannonballs will enter a side in the men’s competition, made up of predominately first grade players, and a team in the U16s.

They will be searching to be crowned champions of the tournament for the first time.

Teams will travel from across the East Coast and as far afield as Brisbane and Melbourne to compete and to ensure it is worthwhile, each side will play a minimum of three games.

“In the men’s division there will be eight pools made up of three teams,” Lipscombe said.

“Each team will play the other two sides in their pool once with the top teams from each pool advancing into the top bracket to play for the cup and plate and the bottom side will play-off for the bowl and lid.”

The action kicks off at 8am on Saturday and the final of the men’s cup is scheduled for 6.30pm.

“It will be a huge day of rugby and rugby sevens produces an entertaining style,” Lipscombe said. 

“We are open to the general public and we encourage everyone to attend and take part in creating a great atmosphere.”