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by Mark Villamora From the initial “IT IS WHAT IT IS” as the team lost their luggage en route to the tournament, to a historic “IT IS WHAT IT IS” double gold victory. A month ago, both the men's and women's Philippine Rugby National Teams hailed as the Asia Rugby Emirates Trophy Sevens (AREST) Champions in Nepal on October 5. Seven Series relegation In 2023, both the Volcanoes men's and women's teams faced relegation from the Asia Rugby Sevens Series (ARSS) to the Trophy Series after finishing at the bottom of the standings. This marked the end of their three-year stint in the Sevens Series, where the top eight national teams in Asia compete against each other in a three-leg tournament hosted in different countries each month. The relegation meant the teams needed to prove themselves again and earn their spots back among Asia's top rugby teams by winning gold at the Trophy Series.  Philippine Team starts the AREST campaign with a four-match clean sheet. A double gold comeback The men's team clinched the Cup Final with a decisive 27-12 victory over Chinese Taipei, while the women’s team held off India with a nail-biting 7-5 win. These wins secured the Volcanoes’ return to the Sevens Series. But this wasn’t just a matter of luck. The men’s and women’s Volcanoes teams launched their AREST campaigns with dominance, overpowering their respective pools with four consecutive clean-sheet matches and leaving their opponents scoreless by impressive margins. The women’s Volcanoes kicked off their campaign with an explosive start right after the opening ceremony. Vanessa Cifuentes scored the Philippines' first try just a minute into the game, undeterred by the loud cheers from the home crowd supporting host country Nepal. Cifuentes went on to become the tournament’s top try-scorer, with an impressive total of six tries in the 2024 AREST campaign.
Humps along the Everest “It is what it is” became the team's mantra when their luggage was lost at the airport upon their arrival in Nepal, along with several other circumstances that were beyond their control. "The experience was special because of how difficult it was... We have lost baggages, busses coming up late, and sort of challenges that sometimes can make it quite difficult. And we overcome a lot of those to get to win," shared men’s captain Kai Stroem shared in a live interview with Radyo Pilipinas. The challenges didn’t stop with lost luggage; the team was unable to practice on the actual venue or even set foot on the rugby field. With no other options available, they had to rent a hockey court with artificial turf, which was less than half the size of a standard rugby field. Yet, they maintained the attitude of “it is what it is,” making the best of the situation with the resources at hand. Financial challenges were also significant. Players based internationally had to cover their own flights to the Philippines for the training camp. To support their teammates, men’s Volcanoes brothers Donald and Jake Coleman organized a fundraising initiative to bring in players from New Zealand for the training pool. Management faced additional difficulties, such as needing to share accommodations due to budget constraints. The team’s luggage exceeded the maximum allowance, resulting in unexpected expenses. The team also welcomed new faces, including players, a new coach, and management, all striving to make the most of a 10-day training camp before the tournament. This camp was often the only opportunity for the players to meet in person. In preparation for the tournament, the players diligently logged their workouts and trained at their respective rugby clubs for months, supporting one another despite the time differences. Many made sacrifices in their work and family commitments to represent the team, including Volcanoes moms Kate Palis and Sylvia Tudoc, who have toddlers. The team encountered numerous “it is what it is” moments on their journey to winning double gold. Regardless of the obstacles, the Volcanoes reached their Everest. These hurdles could not have been overcome without the support of KMC, the Philippine Sports Commission, the Philippine Olympic Committee, Pillar Sports, Fitness First Philippines, and loyal Volcanoes rugby fans, all of whom served as crucial pillars during this journey. The Future of the Volcanoes
The Volcanoes are gearing up for a busy year ahead. As one of Asia's top eight teams, they will participate in the three-month-long 2025 Asia Rugby Sevens Series, all while preparing for the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand and the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. Although the team has not yet regained the same resources and support they had prior to the pandemic, their historic double gold achievement at the AREST 2024 demonstrates that, regardless of the challenges they face, they can soar together and overcome any obstacle because “IT IS WHAT IT IS.” About Philippine Rugby Football Union The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) is the governing body for the sport of rugby in the Philippines. Established in 1998, PRFU is dedicated to the development and promotion of rugby across the country, from grassroots to elite levels. PRFU oversees various rugby programs, competitions, and national teams, aiming to make rugby a major sport in the Philippines. For inquiries, please contact: [email protected] by Mark Villamora The men’s Eagles RFC claimed their third consecutive championship, while the women’s SKF Makati Mavericks ended women’s Eagles RFC’s back-to-back title run in a thrilling final of the 2024 Luzon 7s Series at Alabang Country Club on October 19.  Justin Coveney making a desperation tackle against Johnny Greenwood. Eagles RFC’s Trilogy Win The men’s Eagles RFC swept all three tournament legs, earning their third straight title in the 2024 Luzon 7s Series. Confident entering the finals, the Eagles had already reached the maximum points from the first two legs, securing their spot at the top. Despite their early advantage, they maintained their momentum, delivering strong performances match after match in the final leg. Facing their season-long rivals, the Manila Nomads, in the men’s cup final for the third time this year, the Eagles engaged in a tightly contested battle. The Nomads opened the game with a first-minute try, putting pressure on the Eagles with a strong defensive performance. However, the Eagles fought back, taking the lead at the close of the first half. The second half saw both teams fiercely contesting every play, with the Nomads almost catching up. But an unsuccessful conversion attempt left the final score at 12-10, securing the Eagles’ victory in one of their closest matchups of the season.  Lady Mavericks captain Sylvia Tudoc makes her fourth successful conversion, leading the team to victory. SKF Makati Mavericks Bounce Back In the women’s division, the SKF Makati Mavericks rebounded in the final leg of the Luzon 7s, dethroning last season’s champions, the Eagles RFC. The Lady Mavericks dominated in the first leg, winning all their matches and keeping both Eagles RFC and Manila Nomads Rogues scoreless. However, the second leg proved more challenging, as several senior players attended a National Team training camp for the Asia Rugby Trophy Sevens in Nepal. Though the Lady Mavericks topped the pool rounds, they fell short in the cup final of Leg 2, where the Lady Eagles prevailed 19-0. “From last year, I decided na dalawang team ang i-develop and give everyone the opportunity to apply yung ginagawa [naming seniors] sa training, para kahit wala kaming senior players confident ako na kaya nila. And proven and tested yun from last leg na lahat sila nagshine. The development ng Mavericks Women's Rugby ay sobrang bright,” said SKF Makati Mavericks Player-Coach Rassiel Sales. In the final leg, competition was fierce in the women’s division, with no guarantee that the Lady Mavericks could break the Eagles’ winning streak. In a close pool-round match, the Lady Mavericks narrowly edged out the Eagles with a single try, ending the game at 10-5. The final cup match, the decisive faceoff between the Lady Mavericks and Lady Eagles, turned into a do-or-die battle for the Luzon 7s title. Janin Puig and Rassiel Sales of the Lady Mavericks started strong, each scoring a try to give their team a 14-point lead. Captain Sylvia Tudoc completed four conversions, ensuring the Lady Mavericks’ 28-12 victory. “I can say that I'm always ready for whatever the outcome of that leg manalo man o matalo… Hindi ko inexpect na matatalo namin ang Eagles RFC. What we expect is magiging close ang laban. But we will do the best that we can as a team to win the last leg, and that's it. We did it!,” said SKF Makati Mavericks Captain Sylvia Tudoc.  Manila Nomads Under-20 teams, Buffalo and Juggernauts, showcasing their rugby skills in an exhibition game of Luzon Leg 3. The third leg also featured an exhibition match from the Colts Division, where the Manila Nomads Under-20s, including the Junior Buffalos and Junior Nauggernuts, showcased their talent.
This 2024 season marks the reestablishment of the Colts Division in the PRFU 7s Series, highlighting the development of youth rugby in the Philippines. About Philippine Rugby Football Union The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) is the governing body for the sport of rugby in the Philippines. Established in 1998, PRFU is dedicated to the development and promotion of rugby across the country, from grassroots to elite levels. PRFU oversees various rugby programs, competitions, and national teams, aiming to make rugby a major sport in the Philippines. For inquiries, please contact: [email protected]   Introduction of the guests from BRFU, PRFU, ChildFund Rugby, and AusEmb PH during the opening ceremony. by Mark Villamora ChildFund Rugby Ambassadors Emily Chancellor of the Australian National Team and Pun Wai-Yan of the Hong Kong, China National Team led a Pass It Back T1 rugby clinic at Philsports Ultra, Pasig City, on October 22. The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU), in partnership with ChildFund Rugby and the Australian Embassy in the Philippines, organized the Rugby Clinic titled Rugby for a Purpose – Empowering Women in Rugby. The clinic was facilitated by the ambassadors. Ken Han, President of the Brunei Rugby Football Union (BRFU), joined the event alongside Peter Adams, Counselor of the Australian Embassy in the Philippines, who also performed the kickoff during the Tag Rugby friendly match.  ChildFund Rugby Ambassador Emily Chancellor delivering her speech. The event featured participants from the Volcanoes Team, as well as rugby clubs such as Makati Mavericks, Eagles RFC, Nomads Rogues, and PRFU staff. The program began with short speeches from the ambassadors, followed by rugby drills inside the gym. “When I was first told to join a rugby team, I actually envisioned playing alongside boys. I didn’t even know girls played rugby, but the moment I got there, I realized it’s a thing, and women can play rugby,” said Emily Chancellor.  Ambassador Pun Wai-Yan, barefoot, grooving to the music during the Tag Rugby match. “When I saw people playing rugby on the grass, covered in dirt, I never thought I’d end up playing it myself. But I did, and rugby has taken me to places I never imagined,” shared Pun Wai-Yan. Despite the heavy rain, fun drills involving squats, lunges, and passing exercises were held inside the gym. Emily also led an activity where participants grouped themselves based on a specific number she called out. Once the weather improved, a Tag Rugby friendly match was held on the field, with two teams each accompanied by an ambassador. Volcanoes player Jovan Masalunga served as the host and commentator during the match, with lively music from the technical team keeping the mood upbeat despite the earlier rain. The program concluded with dinner and a get-together with the ambassadors.
This event is part of ChildFund Rugby's Pass It Back program, which aims to integrate rugby and life skills learning by empowering children and young people to play, learn, and lead. Participants were encouraged to Pass It Back to the Filipino youth by sharing the lessons they learned from Emily Chancellor and Pun Wai-Yan. About Philippine Rugby Football Union The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) is the governing body for the sport of rugby in the Philippines. Established in 1998, PRFU is dedicated to the development and promotion of rugby across the country, from grassroots to elite levels. PRFU oversees various rugby programs, competitions, and national teams, aiming to make rugby a major sport in the Philippines. For inquiries, please contact: [email protected] Philippine Volcanoes Secure Historic Double Gold at Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy in Nepal10/7/2024
 Photo: Nepal Rugby Association Kathmandu, Nepal – October 7, 2024: The Philippine Volcanoes men's and women's rugby teams have made history by both securing gold medals at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy tournament in Nepal. The remarkable double triumph is a testament to the teams’ hard work, skill, and dedication as they displayed outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
The men’s squad delivered a series of powerful performances, showcasing their speed, agility, and tactical precision in each match. In the finals, the men's team faced Chinese Taipei in an exhilarating encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats. With clinical execution and remarkable teamwork, the Volcanoes secured their gold with a convincing score of 27 - 12. The squad line-up consistently drove the team forward with their exceptional play. Meanwhile, the women’s team demonstrated their dominance in every match of the tournament, impressing spectators and competitors alike. In the final match, they took on the formidable India team and secured their victory with a last minute penalty award to win 7 - 5. The women’s squad showcased their passion and drive to claim their well-deserved gold. “We are immensely proud of both our women's and men's teams for their performances and dedication,” said Ada Milby, President of Philippine Rugby. “Winning double gold at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy is a historic achievement for Philippine Rugby, and it reflects the hard work of the athletes, coaches, and support staff to make it happen. We are excited to see the continued growth and success of rugby in the Philippines.” The tournament in Nepal marked a significant milestone for Philippine Rugby, highlighting the strength and potential of both the men’s and women’s programs. The squads, led by Samantha Scott for the women and Darryl Suasua for the men, have been building towards this success through an intensive training camp and a competitive selection process . Their achievements in Nepal not only bring pride to the country but also signify a bright future for rugby in the Philippines. For detailed match reports and full squad line-ups, please refer to the official Philippine Rugby website: https://www.philippines.rugby/news/prfu-announces-the-philippine-team-line-up-for-the-2024-emirates-arst  by Mark Villamora The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) named the official lineup of the Philippine Volcanoes men’s and women’s teams set to compete in the Emirates Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy (ARST) at Dasharath Stadium, Nepal, on October 4-5. These top 12 men’s and women’s Volcanoes players were selected from a pool after an intensive 10-day training camp in New Clark City, Tarlac:  MEN'S PHILIPPINE TEAM 1. Co-Captain: Kai Ledesma Stroem 2. Co-Captain: Harrison Carceller Blake 3. Dayton Iobu 4. Donald Canon Coleman 5. George Rosal Nield 6. Jake Soriano 7. Jonel Madrona 8. Michael Gomez Blatties 9. Ned Plarizan Stephenson 10. Rafael Julian Phillips 11. Reed Santos 12. Tristan Quirante Leffers Head Coach: Darryl Suasua Team Manager: Lalaine Bacus Physiotherapist: Declan Drake  WOMEN'S PHILIPPINE TEAM 1. Captain: Rassiel Sales 2. Vice-Captain: Pearl Opolentisima Kellie 3. Alana Lee Donaire Grace 4. Janin Lara Puig 5. Naomi Kate Palis Stroem 6. Kayleigh Corpuz Foster 7. Lauryn Nazareno 8. Loramhel Mateo 9. Patricia Mandon Mangahas 10. Sylvia Tudoc 11. Takiah-Lani Joy Buchanan 12. Vanessa Hachiles Cifuentes Head Coach: Samantha Scott Team Manager: Mark Villamora Physiotherapist: Harry Fardell The Philippine Volcanoes men's and women's teams arrived in Kathmandu, Nepal, on October 1, receiving a warm welcome from the host, Nepal Rugby Association. The jersey presentation is also scheduled for October 3 at the Lemon Tree Premier Hotel.
"On behalf of the Philippine Rugby Football Union, I am proud to announce the official lineup of the Philippine Volcanoes for the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy. This team represents the best of our talent, a good combination of experience and youth. Our athletes, coaches, and management have trained tirelessly, and I have no doubt they will showcase their skills and PUSO on the international stage. We are excited to see them continue the proud tradition of Philippine Rugby and inspire the next generation of players." said PRFU Head of Rugby and Development, Acee San Juan. The Philippine Men’s Rugby team won gold during the 2017 Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy, while the Philippine Women’s Rugby team bagged gold during the 2019 Asia Rugby Sevens Trophy. The PRFU, along with the coaching and management staff, and the entire Volcanoes team, aims for the top spot at the 2024 Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy to advance to the Asia Rugby Sevens Series. The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRRU) would like to thank the generous support of our sponsors and partners. We extend our gratitude to Philippine Sports Commission, KMC Solutions, Pillar Sports, and Fitness First for their commitment to the High Performance Program (HPP) in the Philippines. | Photo: Nepal Rugby Association About Philippine Rugby Football Union The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) is the governing body for the sport of rugby in the Philippines. Established in 1998, PRFU is dedicated to the development and promotion of rugby across the country, from grassroots to elite levels. PRFU oversees various rugby programs, competitions, and national teams, aiming to make rugby a major sport in the Philippines. For inquiries, please contact: [email protected] |
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