PH Volcanoes secure historic double gold at Asia Rugby in Nepal

Members of the Philippine Volcanoes during the awarding ceremony of the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy tournament in Kathmandu, Nepal on Sunday (Oct. 5, 2024). The Philippines men’s team defeated Chinese Taipei, 27-12, in the final, while the women’s team secured the title after beating India, 7-5. –NEPAL RUGBY ASSOCATION

MANILA – The Philippines made history after winning the men’s and women’s titles in the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy at Dasharath Stadium in Kathmandu, Nepal over the weekend.

The Darryl Suasua-mentored men’s squad displayed its remarkable teamwork to prevail over Chinese Taipei, 27-12, in the final.

The women’s team, coached by Samantha Scott, also played brilliantly in their final match, beating India, 7-5.

READ: PH rugby holds Volcanoes tryouts in Brisbane, Australia

After winning these titles, the Philippines will return to the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Series next year.

“We are immensely proud of both our women’s and men’s teams for their performances and dedication,” said Ada Milby, president of Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) in a press release issued on Monday.

“Winning double gold at the Asia Rugby Emirates Sevens Trophy is a historic achievement for Philippine Rugby, and it reflects the hard work of the athletes, coaches, and support staff to make it happen. We are excited to see the continued growth and success of rugby in the Philippines,” she added.

READ: ‘Influential’ women’s standout Ada Milby working hard to raise rugby’s PH profile

The Philippine Volcanoes’ achievements in Nepal highlighted the strength and potential of both the men’s and women’s programs, which included an intensive training camp and a competitive selection process.

The men’s team is composed of co-captains Kai Ledesma Stroem and Harrison Carceller Blake, Dayton Iobu, Donald Canon Coleman, George Rosal Nield, Jake Soriano, Jonel Madrona, Michael Gomez Blatties, Ned Plarizan Stephenson, Rafael Julian Phillips, Reed Santos, Tristan Quirante Leffers, Declan Drake (physiotherapist) and Lalaine Bacus (team manager).

Comprising the women’s squad are Rassiel Sales (captain), Pearl Opolentisima Kellie (vice captain), Alana Lee Donaire Grace, Janin Lara Puig, Naomi Kate Palis Stroem, Kayleigh Corpuz Foster, Lauryn Nazareno, Loramhel Mateo, Patricia Mandon Mangahas, Sylvia Tudoc, Takiah-Lani Joy Buchanan, Vanessa Hachiles Cifuentes, Harry Fardell (physiotherapist) and Mark Villamora (team manager).