For a decade, Scimitar Storm have been carving their name into the world of elite rugby sevens. What started as a simple ambition – build a competitive side, enjoy the game, and see where it leads – has evolved into one of the most recognisable invitational 7s programmes on the international circuit.

As we celebrate 10 years of Scimitar Storm, Team Manager Jay Angove reflects on the journey so far, reviews a standout 2025 season, and looks ahead to an exciting 2026 calendar packed with international tournaments, world-class talent, and major developments for the club.

10 Years of Scimitar Storm – Building a Legacy in Rugby Sevens

Ten years in elite sport is no small achievement.

“It’s genuinely quite surreal,” says Angove. “If you’d told us back then that ten years later we’d be travelling to and competing in high-profile tournaments like Denver and Dubai, I’m not sure many of us would’ve believed you.”

From domestic tournaments to international stages such as the prestigious RugbyTown 7s in the USA and the world-famous Dubai 7s, Storm have grown from an ambitious project into a respected global 7s outfit.

But for Angove, it’s not just about the travel or the trophies.

“We’ve built a recognisable identity and a culture that players want to be part of. Seeing lads come through Storm, go on to bigger stages, or come back and still want to wear the shirt – that’s what I’m proudest of.”

Over the past decade, Scimitar Storm have developed a strong culture centred around professionalism, opportunity, and high performance rugby sevens. The tournaments are unforgettable – but the legacy lies in the people.

2025 Season Review – A Year of High Performance 7s Rugby

The 2025 season was one of Storm’s most complete to date.

Amsterdam Finalists

Reaching the final in Amsterdam was a defining moment.

“It showed what we’re capable of when everything clicks,” Angove reflects. Stringing together big performances against quality opposition reinforced Storm’s ability to compete at the highest invitational level.

RugbyTown 7s – Fine Margins

The semi-final at RugbyTown 7s still lingers.

“We were genuinely unlucky not to get through. Small margins, one or two decisions, and it’s a different story.”

At elite 7s level, the difference between a final and a near-miss is often a single moment.

Cheltenham 7s Champions

Winning Cheltenham 7s was a highlight – and well deserved.

“That tournament felt like a reward for the consistency and effort the squad had put in across the season.”

Nabo’s Rise to International Glory

A special mention goes to Nabo, who spent the summer with Storm before earning selection for the South Africa 7s side and winning in Cape Town.

“That’s some achievement,” says Angove. “Playing through niggles, committing fully to the group, and then stepping up to that level.”

2025 proved one thing: Scimitar Storm can compete with anyone on their day – but there’s still hunger to go further.

2026 Rugby 7s Tournaments – A Huge International Calendar Ahead

The 2026 schedule is shaping up to be one of Storm’s most exciting yet.

Return to Kinsale

A long-awaited return to Kinsale 7s is high on the list.

“It’s one of those tournaments that sticks with you,” says Angove. Known for both quality rugby and electric atmosphere, Kinsale represents unfinished business for Storm after a seven-year absence.

Back on the International Circuit
Storm are also fully returning to the international circuit, targeting major tournaments including:

• Geneva Sevens
• Amsterdam Sevens
• RugbyTown 7s
• Dubai 7s

“These are exactly the kind of stages the players want to test themselves on,” Angove explains. “New opposition, different styles, and a sense that you’re representing more than just yourselves.”

For a team built on international ambition, 2026 is about stepping up again

World-Class Names in a Storm Shirt

In recent years, Storm have welcomed some of the biggest names in world rugby sevens and XVs.

Players such as:

• Niko Matawalu
• Ruaridh McConnochie
• Waisea Nayacalevu
• Mark Bennett

“Having players of that calibre involved lifts standards straight away,” says Angove. “Not just on the pitch, but in preparation and professionalism.”

For younger players, sharing a pitch – or even a changing room – with international stars is invaluable.

It also sends a strong message about the format itself: elite players respect rugby sevens and want to be part of it.

Supporting World Series 7s Players – A Genuine Playing Platform

Storm aren’t just offering guest appearances. They’re building a genuine performance platform for international 7s players.

At Dubai alone, nine World Series players had represented Storm within the previous 18 months. Across the squad, eight players either already had international experience or have since gone on to play World Series rugby.

“7s is all about sharpness and decision-making under stress and fatigue,” Angove explains. “You maintain that through minutes on the pitch, not just training camps.”

By working closely with international coaches and unions, Storm aim to be seen as a trusted partner – a place where players sharpen their edge and return better.

What’s Next for Scimitar Storm?

While the on-field objective remains consistent – compete at the highest level and maintain elite standards – significant growth is happening behind the scenes.

Structural Development & Governance

Storm are evolving commercially and structurally, exploring the appointment of a club chairman to strengthen governance and support long-term strategy.

“It feels like the natural next step for where the programme is heading,” says Angove.

Launching an Open-Level Team

Perhaps the biggest milestone: Storm will launch an Open-level team in 2026, competing more regularly on the UK domestic circuit.

For the first time, Storm will run two men’s sides simultaneously.

“That’s a big moment for us,” Angove explains. “It’s less about dramatic change and more about steady growth – building something sustainable while keeping the spirit of Storm intact.”

A Decade Down. The Next Chapter Begins.

Ten years in, Scimitar Storm are no longer just an invitational side. They are a recognised force in elite rugby sevens – a programme that develops players, attracts world-class talent, and competes on international stages.

From Dubai nights to Denver semi-finals, from Amsterdam finals to Cheltenham trophies, the journey has been relentless.