Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk
Rugby has been steadily gaining momentum in Goa, and the energy surrounding this year’s Goa 7s tournament shows just how far the sport has come. Brandon Crasto, Founder of Goa 7s and President of the Crocotryles Rugby Foundation, is calling on Goans to experience the thrill for themselves by attending at least one match. Drawing parallels to the meteoric rise of MMA, Crasto emphasized that rugby offers the same intensity, adrenaline and spectacle that modern audiences crave. Rugby 7s, he explained, is particularly captivating — a supersonic format marked by speed, open play and nonstop action. The Olympic format of the sport, it offers newcomers an unforgettable first impression and has been Goa’s primary competitive format at the national level since 2014–2015.
Tournament Director Kartik Menda echoed Crasto’s sentiments, describing rugby as one of the most dynamic sports to watch. With just seven players per team on a large field, the pace of the game increases dramatically, allowing for explosive sprints, sweeping runs and constant movement across the pitch. For those who have never watched the sport live, he said, just one match is enough to get hooked. The appeal of rugby lies not only in its intensity but in its vibrant atmosphere — the sound of the crowd, the speed of play and the raw athleticism on display.
Brandon Crasto also shared his personal journey, expressing his dream of making rugby a mainstream sport in Goa. Having represented Goa as a national player for eight years, he credits the sport with shaping his character and identity. Rugby, he said, instilled in him values, discipline and a global perspective that helped him grow mentally and physically. Promoting the sport is his way of giving back to both the community and the game that has driven his personal growth. His efforts are now being supported by Rugby India, further strengthening the ecosystem.
Ryan Gaulstan of Rugby India, who is also serving as the Match Commissioner for Goa 7s, highlighted the organization’s commitment to building rugby’s foundation in the state. He is in Goa to conduct World Rugby-certified courses in areas including medical support and match officiating. These programs aim to equip Goa with a trained workforce of officials, medics and coaches — essential components for developing the sport sustainably at the grassroots and competitive levels.
As the Goa 7s tournament continues, the growing enthusiasm around the sport signals a promising future for rugby in the state. With passionate promoters, strong institutional backing and rising public interest, rugby in Goa is gearing up for its next big leap.
