The best emerging sevens talent from across the globe descends on Auckland next weekend for the Global Youth Sevens.

The New Zealand Under 18 boys and girls sevens teams have been selected following the culmination of regional and national age group sevens tournaments.

A proven pathway to the international stage, Justine McGregor and Joey Taumateine were members of their respective 2023 Under 18 squads  and both debuted for the Black Ferns Sevens and All Blacks Sevens at the Dubai Sevens  last weekend.

New Zealand Rugby Sevens Pathways Manager Dan Goodwin said the selection process has taken several months with selectors looking at athletes in school, club and provincial competitions.

“We are looking for young players who show the character and skills we value in the All Blacks Sevens and Black Ferns Sevens teams.

The reality is some of these players could be on the world stage within the next 12 months, so it’s important they fit the profile of a top sevens athlete on and off the field.

“This group of players are a credit to themselves and their communities and have an amazing opportunity to showcase their talents next weekend.

“It’s also exciting to see former players within our management groups, not only giving back to the next generation, but taking those next steps in their own post- playing  careers,” said Goodwin. 

The Under 18 boys’ team are reigning Global Youth champions and have Wiremu Brailey returning from the 2023 side.

It features three players from the Condors-winning Tauranga Boys’ College side, including the highly touted Charlie Sinton, who recently was named Māori Junior Sportsperson of the Year.

Tafai Ioasa returns as head coach and is joined this year by the recently-retired All Blacks Sevens legend Sam Dickson.

Arlia MacCarthy and Maia Davis will provide key leadership in their third year in the Under 18 girls team, while Louise Blyde, Danii Mafoe and Braxton Sorensen-McGee return for a second campaign.

Kristina Sue, former Black Fern and Black Ferns Sevens player, is again joined by Blair Baxter as the teams’ coaches.