Following SAMURAI and Amsterdam 7s partnership, members from Team SAMURAI got the opportunity to attend the event in Amsterdam last weekend. Though the weather was slightly sporadic, the event and people were incredible, making the experience truly extraordinary. See what we got up to...
AMSTERDAM 7S
One of the most beloved by fans, Amsterdam 7s is a favourite among the annual sevens tournaments, described as “top rugby, in a relaxed atmosphere”. Its rapidly growing popularity and success is making it one of the most exciting sevens rugby tournaments in the world.
Held in the Sportpark de Eendracht in Amsterdam, home to Amsterdam Athletic Club, AAC Rugby and the National Rugby teams of The Netherlands, the tournament consists of three distinct competitions; Elite, Social and Veteran (35+), and holds host to men’s and women’s teams from around the globe, formed of both professional and amateur players.
Though noted as a fantastic rugby tournament, the event itself offers entertainment throughout the weekend for players and visitors; with DJ’s, food trucks and after-parties, all to create the much loved rugby atmosphere and way of life.
@samuraisportswear SAMURAI take Amsterdam 7s 🏉#amsterdam7s #amsterdam #rugbytok #rugbyleague #rugbyleague #visitamsterdam ♬ Thug Life - Yan 394
As partners for the event, members of Team SAMURAI were invited to Amsterdam for the weekend to attend the event and run the SAMURAI shop on the grounds. It was a fantastic opportunity to see the city and immerse ourselves in the rugby community; and Amsterdam 7s definitely did not disappoint. Everyone; coaches, staff, players and visitors, were the friendliest of people who created a truly amazing atmosphere - which kept up spirits even in the torrential rain on Sunday. The shop created a space for us to introduce our new brand identity, whilst maintaining a connection to our heritage.
SAMURAI RFC
As part of the SAMURAI Family, Samurai RFC arrived at the competition ready to compete with their new season kits. Lee Bartlett, the Graphic and Techpack Designer here at SAMURAI and creator of Samurai RFC’s newest kit, commented: “This season’s kit was a highly collaborative project between us and Samurai RFC’s Director of Rugby Terry Sands. It’s great to work so closely with someone so passionate about their club. The design was inspired by the modern architecture of Amsterdam and the eclectic wonders of the city and I’m so pleased by how it turned out, I think it really stood out on the pitch.”
Both their team’s played fantastically throughout the weekend games, with the Veteran team winning their competition 22-10 against opponents Welsh Charity Vets. Our very own Sales and Business Development Manager for the Southwest, Matt Ball, played for the Samurai Rugby Veteran team.
Over the course of the event, we got to connect with Charlie Walker, who played for Samurai RFC over the weekend. A fantastic player, he took the time to chat with us about the SAMURAI, rugby and what he loves best about the Amsterdam 7s tournament - see Charlie’s Q&A on our TikTok channel below:
@samuraisportswear #amsterdam #amsterdam7s #amsterdam7stournament #rugby #rugbytok🏉 ♬ original sound - Samuraisportswear
Founded in 1996, Samurai Rugby Football Club has gone on to become one of the best 7s clubs in the world. With an extensive global network of both professional and amateur players, this invitational team offers the amazing opportunity for their players to develop their performance and skills - from elite-level to first-time young and talented players. Want to learn more about Samurai RFC? Check out their website here for information on the team, prospectus, statistics and much more.
A TOUR OF CENTRAAL
And of course, after the hustle and bustle of the tournament, we couldn’t miss the chance to see Amsterdam from inside the city itself. The atmosphere is unlike any else.
A huge thank you to the organisers and all the amazing teams and players for making the event such a success. See you next year Amsterdam 7s!
For more information on the Amsterdam 7s event, visit their website here.
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