Last year the Atlanta Sevens was under threat after the worst snowfall in 15 years brought the southern US city to a halt. But this year the teams are all set to go, as the temperature has been raised both on and off the park.
This weekend’s action could give shape to the first qualifiers for next year’s Olympic Games, with the top four teams at the end of the season going through to Rio 2016.
Currently New Zealand sit on top of the standings on 40 points after winning the opening rounds of the 2014-15 World Rugby Women's Sevens Series in Dubai and Brazil. Australia lie second on 36 points, Canada are third with 32 points and the fourth qualification spot is currently occupied by a much improved French team on 28 points.
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The remaining seven places at the Olympics - Brazil automatically qualify as hosts - will be decided by regional qualifying tournaments after the series finishes in May.
As the 12 team captains gathered in Marietta Square outside Atlanta on Thursday, New Zealand captain Sarah Goss was aware of the mathematical possibilities but her focus is only on the next match against Russia on Saturday in Kennesaw State University.
“It’s one game at a time and we approach each game as if it’s a final. Obviously we all want to go to Rio and if we can qualify as early as possible then that’s a bonus,” she said.
The competition between teams is evident for all to see but it’s the battle to get in coach Sean Horan’s squad that is also driving the Kiwi girls.
“We’ve got a contracted squad of 21 at home, but there’s at least 30 that could make the international squad and perform. We’re at home and we’re bashing each other and it great competition. The 12 squad members that are here are ready to go and really excited to play,” added Goss.
Hosts USA had a strong showing at the last round in Brazil and had some really tight matches, including running New Zealand close at the Arena Barueri. Captain Kelly Griffin and her side have taken key learnings from the last two rounds of the series.
“We’re excited to be in the States and to showcase rugby here in the US. Playing at home is always really exciting, you have the home crowds, fans and family. There could be an added bit of pressure but when kick off comes, you focus on the game and the other team in front of you,” she said.
“In São Paulo we had a lot of close games so we really just need to maintain our focus and finish off the game in a strong manner. No matter who we’re playing, we try to stick to our game and we know that if we can really execute, we can be successful.”
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Defending champions New Zealand are drawn in Pool A alongside hosts USA, Russia and South Africa. Australia will face a confident France side in Pool B along with Fiji and Spain, while Canada, will play England, Brazil and China in Pool C.
The action from Kennesaw State University will be streamed live from Saturday morning when Australia take on Fiji at midday (GMT –4).
