The world of rugby is abuzz with exciting news as two seasoned Olympians, Maurice Longbottom and Josh Turner, commit to another season with the Australian Men's Sevens program. This announcement is a significant boost for the team's Olympic ambitions, especially with the LA 2028 Games on the horizon.
Longbottom, a veteran with nearly 250 matches under his belt, is poised to make history. He's just one season away from becoming the second-most experienced player in the squad, a testament to his enduring talent and dedication. What makes this particularly fascinating is the prospect of Longbottom reaching the 1000-point milestone in the SVNS Series, a feat that would cement his legacy in the sport. Personally, I've always admired Longbottom's resilience and adaptability, which are crucial in the fast-paced world of sevens rugby.
Turner, a New Zealand-born speedster, is also on the verge of a remarkable achievement. With just four events to go, he's set to reach the 50-cap marker, a testament to his consistency and skill. Turner's journey, which began at the Dubai Sevens in 2018, has been a testament to the allure of the sevens format, offering players a unique platform to showcase their talent.
The re-signings don't stop there. Will Cartwright, a promising young talent whose debut season was cut short by injury, is back for more. This is a significant move for Cartwright, who is now eyeing a spot in the LA Olympics. His comeback story adds a layer of intrigue to the team's narrative, as he looks to make up for lost time and prove his worth on the international stage.
Peter Horne, Director of High Performance, rightly emphasizes the value of experience in the squad. Longbottom and Turner, with their decade-long association with the program, bring a wealth of knowledge and leadership. This is crucial for a team that is not just aiming for success in the upcoming season but also looking to build a sustainable foundation for the future.
The recent re-signing spree by Rugby Australia is a strategic move to ensure continuity and stability. The retention of James Turner, a standout player who was named the team's Player of the Year in 2025, is a significant coup. Turner's versatility, having played for the Wallabies and the NSW Waratahs, adds depth and flexibility to the squad. This is a clear indication of the team's commitment to excellence and their belief in the potential of these players.
The re-signings of Ben Dowling, James McGregor, and Harry Wilson further bolster the squad. Dowling and Turner, with their leadership qualities, are poised to lead the team into the next Olympics. McGregor's development and Wilson's impressive debut season add depth and potential for future growth. This strategic retention of core players is a testament to the team's long-term vision and their commitment to nurturing talent.
In my opinion, the Australian Men's Sevens program is making all the right moves. They are not just assembling a team for the upcoming season but are building a dynasty. The blend of experience, talent, and potential is a recipe for success, and I believe they are well-positioned to make a significant impact on the international sevens circuit. The LA Olympics is a major goal, but with the squad they are assembling, they might just be setting their sights on a legacy that extends far beyond 2028.
