All Black Sevens Coach Excluded from North American Tour
The All Black Sevens team will embark on the Vancouver and New York legs of the World Sevens Series without their head coach, Tomasi Cama. This decision comes as a result of visa complications.
New Zealand Rugby confirmed on Tuesday that Cama's visa application could not be processed in time for his travel with the team, who are set to depart New Zealand today. Cama, a renowned figure in the sport, was appointed head coach of the All Black Sevens in August 2023, bringing his wealth of experience to the role.
His illustrious career includes playing in 128 tournaments for New Zealand, culminating in the prestigious World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Award in 2012. Despite his absence, the team will be led by assistant coach Willie Rickards, who will take on the head coach duties for the two tournaments, supported by Scott Curry as his assistant.
The Vancouver tournament, scheduled for Sunday and Monday, will be followed by the New York event on the 14th and 15th of the month. New Zealand finds itself in Pool A at the Vancouver 7s, alongside South Africa, Spain, and Great Britain.
This development highlights the challenges that even the most seasoned athletes and coaches face when navigating international travel and visa processes.
