WITH the 29th Southeast Asian Games just around the corner, the national men’s and women’s rugby teams are preparing early to defend the medals they won during the 2015 edition of the games.
Director of Rugby for the Philippine Rugby Football Union Matthew Cullen said this as the Philippine Volcanoes began their bid to retain the gold medal won by the national men’s squad, and improve on the national women’s squad’s bronze-medal finish.
“We think it’s really best to start now, nine months out,” said Cullen.
The Volcanoes talked about their preparations during a meet-and-greet with fans and supporters Thursday evening at the Pioneer Market St. in Mandaluyong.
To sharpen the national squad’s fighting form, they are joining a series of international tournaments against the best in Asia.
Their campaign will boost their bid to duplicate their double podium finish in the SEAG.
“Our athletes are preparing for nine months, playing in top-level competitions,” added Cullen.
The Volcanoes’ men’s side is joining first two legs of the 2017 Asian 7s series in Dubai and India.
On the other hand, the Lady Volcanoes will be in the Bangkok 7s from Nov. 12 to 13.
“Hopefully, we can get to the Asian Games,” said Cullen.
Jake Letts, captain of the 2015 champion team, said they hope to finish their prep work by February.
“Our first step is to finish first in February, which I am confident we can after a silver-place finish this year,” said Letts.