By Arinzechi Chukwunonso
The Rivers State Inter-Local Government Rugby Sevens Tournament delivered a vibrant showcase of emerging talent over the weekend, with Akuku-Toru, Opobo-Nkoro, and Port Harcourt City (PHALGA) emerging as standout performers in a thrilling Under-15 and Under-19 competition for boys and girls.
Organised by the Rivers State Rugby Association in partnership with stakeholders committed to grassroots sports development, the tournament featured teams from Ogu-Bolo, Akuku-Toru, PHALGA, and Opobo-Nkoro, highlighting growing interest in rugby across local communities.
The event, held in Rivers State, attracted dignitaries including a representative of the Rivers State Director of Sports, Mr. Samuel John Bull, and the Chairman of the Akuku-Toru Sports Committee, Coach Edward Briggs. Spectators were treated to an energetic display of speed, strength, and discipline as young athletes thrilled fans with tackles, tries, and tactical play.
Early Statement of Intent
Akuku-Toru set the tone early in the competition, as their Under-15 boys secured a hard-fought 10–5 victory over Ogu-Bolo in the opening fixture. The result signalled their intent and set the pace for an exciting day of rugby action.
In the Under-19 girls’ category, PHALGA produced a disciplined and dominant performance to defeat Akuku-Toru 10–0, showcasing strong defensive organisation and clinical finishing.
Finals Deliver High-Intensity Action
The finals brought even more intensity, with Opobo-Nkoro delivering one of the most impressive performances of the tournament. They overpowered PHALGA 30–5 in the Under-19 boys’ final, combining pace and precision to claim a convincing victory.
In the Under-15 girls’ final, Akuku-Toru bounced back in style, completing a commanding double over Ogu-Bolo with a 15–0 win, capping a successful outing for the team.
Government Support and Grassroots Commitment
Speaking at the conclusion of the tournament, Mr. Samuel John Bull praised the young athletes for their discipline and competitive spirit, urging them to remain committed to excellence both on and off the field.
He emphasized the importance of education alongside sports development, encouraging participants to balance academic pursuits with their athletic ambitions.
Mr. Bull also reaffirmed the Rivers State Government’s commitment to sports development, describing rugby as a powerful tool for youth empowerment and a viable pathway for talent discovery beyond traditional sports.
As a gesture of support, he provided transportation assistance to ensure all participating teams returned safely to their respective local government areas.
Organisers Hail Success
Convener of the tournament, Coach Mathias David, expressed gratitude to the Rivers State Government for its support and recognition of rugby development efforts in the state.
“I cannot thank the Director of Sports enough. Sending a representative shows that rugby is recognised in Rivers State, and providing transportation support for the players is highly commendable,” he said.
He added that the successful hosting of the tournament marks a major milestone for rugby development in Rivers State, expressing optimism that it will become a regular fixture on the sporting calendar.
Rugby Growth Gains Momentum
The tournament reflects the continued efforts of stakeholders to expand the reach of rugby at the grassroots level, providing structured competition for young athletes while strengthening community engagement through sport.
With performances like those seen from Akuku-Toru, Opobo-Nkoro, and PHALGA, the future of rugby in Rivers State appears increasingly bright as the sport continues to gain momentum.
