Rugby 7s
Rugby Sevens, the fast-paced, high energy version of rugby union, has deep roots in Scotland. With games lasting just 14 minutes and teams playing multiple matches in one day, rugby sevens offers an exciting alternative to the traditional 15-a-side format. Over the years, Scotland has remained central to the growth of the sport, both as the birthplace of Sevens and as a key player in its continued development. Today, Scotland hosts several renowned Sevens tournaments, drawing elite teams, grassroots clubs and a growing number of charity-focused squads.
The Birthplace of Sevens
The origins of rugby sevens can be traced back to Melrose, Scotland, in 1883 when Ned Haig, a local butcher and rugby union player, devised the format as a fundraising initiative for his club. What began as a local experiment quickly gained popularity, spreading across Scotland and eventually worldwide. In 1973, Scotland hosted the first ever international sevens tournament, and in 1993, the inaugural Rugby Sevens World Cup took place on Scottish soil.
Key Sevens Tournaments in Scotland
Scotland’s sevens circuit features a blend of historic and emerging tournaments, each contributing to the sport’s growth and appeal. Here are some of the must-watch events:
Melrose Sevens
22nd -25th May
Melrose Sevens remains the crown jewel of the Scottish sevens circuit. Hosted annually at Greenyards, the tournament attracts clubs and international teams and players. Last year’s winners were Shogun RFC, which was founded by Terry Sands in 1996, inspired by the playing spirit of the Japanese national rugby team in the 1995 Rugby World Cup. It is widely known as one of the best 7s teams in the world, with some of the top players in the rugby sevens landscape. The event is pilgrimage for rugby fans, celebrating the birthplace of sevens while showcasing top-tier competition.
Phil Morris, Director of Melrose Sevens said: “The Howden Melrose Sevens is a really significant event in the Scottish rugby calendar, being the home of the game of rugby sevens since 1883, the event is a key pillar in the Scottish Borders calendar and a real economic boost to the area. In addition to the 18 Scottish teams, we have 6 invitational men’s teams and 4 women’s teams attending the event including Te Anawatu all the way from the Waikato in New Zealand and charity teams such as Hearts and Balls who do so much supporting rugby players who have sustained life altering injuries. We are really proud that the event continues to flourish as we head towards our 150th anniversary in 2033 and beyond.”
Edinburgh City Sevens
11th -13th July
The Edinburgh City Sevens has quickly established itself as a premier event in Scotland’s rugby calendar. Held in the heart of the capital, the tournament draws teams from across the UK and beyond, blending high-intensity rugby with a festival-like atmosphere. The accessibility of Edinburgh as a host city, combined with the vibrant rugby community, has made this event a favourite among players and spectators alike. The event in June also hosts hockey and netball tournaments which encourages more people to get involved and play. With elite, social, and corporate teams competing, the Edinburgh City Sevens showcases the inclusivity of sevens rugby and its broad appeal.
Mull Sevens: A Highland Island Spectacle
17th May
Mull Sevens, “The World’s Most Sociable Sevens,” is a unique and iconic tournament in Scotland. Held on the Isle of Mull, this event brings a festival atmosphere to the west coast, drawing teams from across the country for a weekend of competitive rugby and social engagement. Known for its breath taking setting and strong local support, the Mull Sevens embodies spirit of grassroots rugby while maintaining competitive edge. The remote location adds to the adventure, making it a favourite among players and fans alike.
Kings and Queens of the 7s
The new competition, Tayside Kings and Queens of the 7s, is an exciting addition to the Scottish Sevens calendar. It brings a fresh structure to the game by introducing a four-leg series where teams will battle across multiple tournaments for an overall championship title. Unlike traditional sevens tournaments that often feature invitational or select squads, this competition is strictly open to club teams, ensuring a level playing field and encouraging more grassroots participation. The format rewards consistency across the four weekends rather than a single standout performance. The initiative could be a game changer for club rugby in Scotland, particularly in the Tayside region by offering more competitive opportunities for clubs outside the central belt, creating a structures season long competition for 7s specialists.
The Four Leg Challenge
Kirkcaldy 7s – April 26 th
Howe 7s – May 3 rd
Perth 7s – May 10 th
Dundee 7s – May 17 th
The winner will be crowned based on overall performance, adding a league-style element to the traditional knockout format of 7s tournaments.
The Rise of Charity Teams in Scottish Sevens
In recent years, charity teams have become a major feature in Scottish Sevens tournaments, with a growing number of sides entering competitions to raise awareness and funds for various causes. Teams such as the Hearts and Balls who support rugby players who have sustained life altering injuries, have brought a new dynamic to the game, proving that sevens rugby is about more than just competition—it’s a vehicle for change. These teams often feature a mix of amateur and professional players, uniting under a shared cause to make a tangible difference in their communities.
Dylan Russell – Club Manager and Secretary from Hearts and Balls said: “I think it’s great to see so many charities affiliated teams across Scotland. For me it’s always been about giving friends of friends an opportunity to play rugby across the summer. That’s why The Mighty Bovs was founded in 2013. 7 years later we linked with Hearts and Balls Charitable Trust to become “Hearts and Balls MB”.
We still have the same drivers but now we also raise awareness for a great Scottish Charity. It also allows us to give players the opportunity to play all over Scotland, the UK and worldwide.”
