As we stepped on the plane to Tokyo, there is a deep sense of relief, and welcomed anxiety as we are ready to settle into life at the village.
While we travelled to Tokyo with a squad of thirteen, there are countless people who have helped us get to the position we are in today, and from the outset, we can’t thank them enough.
Thank you to the IOC, Japan, Tokyo and of course Australia for granting us this opportunity to compete at the Olympics under such trying conditions.
We’re a young squad but we boast worlds of experience. From Harvey Norman Super Rugby through to Shute Shield, Hospital Cup and even a Rugby World Cup - there’s no dismissing what every player brings.
The thirteen selected not only represent the current Sevens program members, but all players and staff, past and present, as well as the game of rugby across the country - from the Under 6 Mud Crabs through to the Wallabies.
COVID may have delayed the start of our games but it’s allowed many opportunities too. We respected the pandemic and navigated ourselves into a position of strength.
The program and its players continue to deliver resilience, adaptability, purpose and leadership.
“A calm sea never made a skilful mariner” as they say.
We are proud to call Dylan Pietsch, a Wiradjuri man and Maurice Longbottom, of the Dharawal nation, our teammates, as we embrace their culture and identity to our team.
Moz [Maurice Longbottom] makes up one of our three team leaders, flanked ably by Henry Hutchison who returns for his second Olympic Games while Nick Malouf will call the shots as captain.
While these three players have the title of captain, we are a team full of leaders.
On debut we have Dietrich Roach, hailing from the Western Sydney Two-Blues - I can’t wait for the world to see him run. Alongside him, Southern Districts Nathan Lawson, one of the most versatile and athletic members of the team earning his spot through sheer hard work.
Returning from a stint in Super Rugby are some of Rugby Australia’s most experienced and lethal Sevens players, Lachie Anderson and Lewis Holland.
Samu Kerevi is also set to make his Sevens debut. Samu is a key impact player in our campaign and this World Cup Wallaby is set to ignite the Sevens world.
Queensland’s Joe Pincus has also earnt his start at the Games - quiet and unassuming, he certainly packs a punch and will be one to watch come Monday. Alongside him, Lachie Miller, fresh off the birth of his first child, Billy, there’s no doubting ‘dads’ reason to play. While a young and energetic Josh Coward will be electric on the ball!
From Melbourne to Brisbane and everywhere in between, we are proud of what every player brings to our team.
When we run out onto Tokyo Stadium on Monday morning we will do so for a number of reasons; to represent ourselves, our friends, our family.
To represent our country and the jersey, which has embossed our coat of arms – no matter how many times we wear it, the jersey, its reverence, must never be forgotten.
But most importantly of all, we run out representing the Rugby community - our Rugby community.
Every player, coach, physio and staff member hailed from a Rugby club and these are all who we play for.
From the parents acting volunteer coaches at U6s through to the younger brothers and sisters offering to run touch - every member of our game has played a part in helping us get here, whether they realise it or not - and that we thank you!
So, when the whistle blows next Monday as we leave the changeroom, know that we are:
Prepared to perform;
Prepared to exceed expectation;
Prepared for “no excuses” and walk off the Tokyo Olympic field without regret.
