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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]
The Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) is proud to announce the strengthening of its partnership with ChildFund Rugby (CFR) as the official social impact partner of the union. This collaboration is a testament to both organizations’ commitment to using rugby as a vehicle for positive change in communities across the Philippines and beyond.
As part of this significant partnership, ChildFund Rugby’s logo will be proudly displayed on the jerseys of the Philippine Volcanoes, the national men’s and women’s rugby teams, as they compete in the Asia Rugby Trophy Sevens Tournament, scheduled for October 4-5, 2024, in Kathmandu, Nepal. The Volcanoes, known for their passion and determination, will now also represent a beacon of hope, carrying the message of social impact and youth empowerment through the sport. A Partnership for Lasting Impact The PRFU and ChildFund Rugby partnership is rooted in a shared vision of using rugby to transform lives, particularly among marginalized youth. Integrated learning products like Pass It Back, teach life skills through rugby, empowering young people in vulnerable communities. To date, this partnership has positively impacted thousands of children, promoting inclusion, leadership, and resilience. “We are excited to deepen our partnership with ChildFund Rugby,” said Ada Milby, President of PRFU. “Having their logo on our jerseys in such a prestigious tournament shows that our collaboration goes beyond the field. This is about making a difference. Our players are proud to represent not only the Philippines but also the powerful mission of ChildFund Rugby.” ChildFund Rugby’s Global Reach ChildFund Rugby has long been recognized for its impactful work across the globe, using rugby to promote education, child rights, and community development. By aligning with PRFU’s goals of rugby growth and social responsibility, ChildFund Rugby’s influence continues to resonate through each match, training session, and program. “Our partnership with PRFU is a shining example of how rugby can unite people to tackle societal challenges,” said Chris Mastaglio, Director of ChildFund Rugby. “Seeing the ChildFund Rugby logo on the Volcanoes’ jerseys reinforces the idea that sport can inspire change. Together, we are creating opportunities for young people to develop essential life skills, build strong communities, and strive for a brighter future.” Vince Davo, Head of Operations and Strategy at PRFU, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “Our collaboration with ChildFund Rugby exemplifies the true spirit of rugby—a game that transcends boundaries and fosters community engagement. By wearing the ChildFund logo, our athletes not only compete for victory but also stand as champions of social responsibility and empowerment.” Philippine Volcanoes Ready to Take on Kathmandu The Philippine Volcanoes, both men’s and women’s teams, are prepared to bring their talent, heart, and commitment to the Asia Rugby Trophy Sevens Tournament in Nepal. Having undergone extensive preparations, the teams are eager to showcase their skills and the social values they now represent on an international platform. As the tournament kicks off on October 4-5, 2024, the Volcanoes will proudly represent not only the Philippines but also the transformative work of ChildFund Rugby, showing that rugby can be more than just a game—it can be a catalyst for social change. Join the Movement The PRFU invites fans and supporters to rally behind the Philippine Volcanoes as they take the stage in Kathmandu. With ChildFund Rugby’s mission visibly emblazoned on their jerseys, the Volcanoes are not just athletes; they are advocates for a brighter future. Follow the journey, cheer for the Volcanoes, and become part of the global movement where rugby drives meaningful change. #PRFUChildFund #VolcanoesOnTheRise #RugbyForGood |
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