Rugby Sevens · International
Italy expands sevens programme ahead of Dubai qualifier
Coach Matteo Mazzantini outlines a renewed pathway for Italian sevens.
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Italy approached HSBC SVNS 3 in Dubai with an expanded sevens programme under head coach Matteo Mazzantini. The former international scrum-half took charge in 2023 and described stronger federation support after a long period when resources concentrated on fifteen-a-side rugby.
Preparation included a three-day camp in December, another two-day camp in early January and a final squad gathering from January 9. The team now has dedicated sponsors and greater access to players, allowing more preparation than its previous short windows after club seasons.
Development plans include a national under-sixteen sevens tournament during the summer. Mazzantini wants to increase youth participation and ultimately build a group of professional sevens players, while setting a target of reaching at least SVNS 2 within two or three years.
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