In just a few short weeks, the games of the XXXI Olympiad will officially open in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As we know, this is of particular interest to Rugby fans across the globe as our game will be reintroduced for the first time since 1924, albeit in Sevens form.
Teams and players from 12 countries have been training for and anticipating this moment. Spain showed us very well last week what a momentous occasion this can be.
In the coming days and weeks, final squads will be named. Just this past week, New Zealand confirmed and announced squads for both the men's and women's teams. Scott Curry will captain the men's squad and Sarah Goss will assume captain's duties for the women.
Notable inclusions include brother and sister combo Sonny Bill and Niall Williams.
Sonny Bill certainly needs no introduction and will be looking to add a medal to an already full trophy cabinet. If you remember, a while back we also posted a video of his sister showing tremendous skills herself.
Judging from this video, the two seem to have a solid grasp on what makes the other so talented.
The notable omission from the men's squad has to be that of All Black Liam Messam, who had foregone the Super Rugby season and Union altogether for a shot at Olympic gold.
This certainly shows the kind of draw the Olympics hold for athletes across the board. And it shows that selection was certainly not a given, as Wallaby Quade Cooper also found out.
Check back for further updates and team announcements.
Women’s tournament: 6-8 August
Pool A: Australia (one), USA (six), Fiji (seven), Colombia (12)
Pool B: New Zealand (two), France (five), Spain (eight), Kenya (11)
Pool C: Canada (three), Great Britain (four), Brazil (nine), Japan (10)
Men’s tournament: 9-11 August
Pool A: Fiji (one), USA (six), Argentina (seven), Brazil (12)
Pool B: South Africa (two), Australia (five), France (eight), Spain (11)
Pool C: New Zealand (three), Great Britain (four), Kenya (nine), Japan (10)