Written by: Unknown
Source: Sports Events Media Group
PORTLAND, Ore.—– Premier Rugby Sevens (PR7) drew a record-breaking crowd of about 5,000 fans at the 2024 PR7s All-Star Tournament at Providence Park on November 17. Ticket sales surpassed the previous record by 39 percent and revenue by 49 percent.
PR7s delivered six professional matches, which included the U.S. and Canadian National Team, 25 Olympians, and nine medalists from the Paris games. Four PR7s players—Peter Sio Jr., Autumn LoCicero, Autumn Czaplicki, and Alyssa Porter—made their national team debuts, and the event marked the first formal partnership between PR7s and Rugby Canada (PR7s has been sanctioned by USA Rugby since 2021).
“The success of the PR7s All-Star Tournament shows that rugby has arrived in the United States,” says Owen Scannell, CEO of Premier Rugby Sevens. “The record-breaking attendance and global broadcast reach are clear signals that this summer has changed the game for the sport. Smashing records on a cold and rainy day with a super engaged crowd that turned up with less than a month’s notice shows the excitement for rugby’s moment is here to stay, and we are proud to be part of making it happen.”
For emerging payers, the All-Star Tournament was a stepping stone toward the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series and the 2028 Olympics taking place in Los Angeles. The day included three amateur matches showcasing regional, collegiate, and youth talent, including the Oregon Rugby Sports Union (ORSU) and the University of Oregon. Fifteen local rugby clubs participated in the fan fest, and the tournament featured a youth game between the Pacific Northwest Loggers and TOA Idaho, highlighting the next generation of rugby talent.
“This tournament was invaluable for our team, especially as we integrate young and emerging players,” says Emilie Bydwell, head coach of the U.S. women’s national team. “Events like these provide critical opportunities for athletes to battle-test themselves against top-tier competition while preparing for what lies ahead. Our partnership with PR7s allows players to showcase their abilities in a bigtime environment where the lights are bright.”
