PANAJI: Goa is all set to host Goa 7s 2025 – Season 2, one of India’s fastest-growing rugby festivals, scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, at the GMC Athletic Stadium, Bambolim.
The two-day event promises a powerful display of athleticism, spirit, and global camaraderie as top rugby talent from India and overseas converges in Goa.
Organised in partnership with the Crocotyles Rugby Foundation (CRF), the tournament strengthens rugby’s footprint in Goa while contributing to the state’s broader sports tourism vision.
Participation & Categories
This year’s edition has doubled in size, featuring 24 teams and over 350 players, with categories in Men’s 7s, Women’s 7s, and Adult Mixed Touch Rugby. Matches will follow the Cup, Plate, and Bowl competitive format.
An estimated 300+ spectators are expected to gather for the event, with a global livestream expected to draw 5,000+ online viewers.
International Teams & Expanding Reach
At a press briefing, Brandan Crasto, Founder of Goa 7s and President of CRF, highlighted the tournament’s exponential growth:
- 10 men’s teams
- 10 mixed teams
- 4 women’s teams
Crasto announced the participation of teams from different Indian states including J&K, Tamil Nadu, East & West India, along with international teams from Australia, Nepal, South Africa, the USA, and the Philippines.
He added:
“I love the HSBC 7s series, especially the Hong Kong 7s. This is a shoutout to World Rugby, Asia Rugby and India Rugby — please come and see what we are building here.”
Expressing confidence, Crasto emphasised:
“We had 12 teams last year and 24 this year. We’ve opened the doors for international players. With the support of Asia Rugby and India Rugby, this will become a world-class tournament.”
Officials & Collaborators Present
Also present at the briefing:
- Ryan Gaulstan – Head Manager, Rugby India
- Kartik Menda – Tournament Director
- Samaka Issacs – Australia Semi-Pro Rugby Player
- Michael Blatteis – Philippines 7s International
- Ganesh Baniya – Nepal Rugby 7s International
Gaulstan expressed optimism:
“With Brandan’s vision, Goa 7s will grow bigger and help develop strong players. Goa will be among the top states for Rugby 7s in the coming years.”
Menda added insights on organisation:
“We doubled the number of teams, so the challenges doubled. This is a community-driven event, and the Departments of Tourism and Art & Culture have greatly supported us.”
Defending Champions & Global Talent
Defending champions Delhi Hurricanes RC will compete again across all three categories. This season also hosts teams from Colombo and players from USA, UK, France, South Africa, Nepal, Philippines, and Australia, alongside top Indian club players.
Tourism, Economy & Sports Development
The Goa government, through the Department of Tourism, continues to support high-energy sporting events to strengthen Goa’s positioning as a sports and adventure tourism hub.
With its fast-paced format and festive Goan backdrop, Goa 7s rapidly emerges as a must-watch sports spectacle blending athletic excellence with global sporting culture.
CRF’s Contribution
The Crocotyles Rugby Foundation, founded by Brandan Crasto, has been instrumental in building Goa’s rugby ecosystem since 2014.
CRF engages 10,000+ students annually through grassroots programmes and plays a critical role in monetizing and professionalizing rugby in Goa.
The long-term vision: Make Goa the sports and tourism hub of India and Asia by 2030.
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