Swiss U18 boys ranked 9th in the 7’s European Championship

Rugby Europe Sevens U18 Championship

On July 15-16, 2023, the Rugby Europe U18 7's Championship was held for the first time in Switzerland at the superb BASPO facilities in Macolin (Biel). It was also a premier for a Swiss national team taking part in a competition that gathers the best young European 7-a-side rugby teams and young talents.

After a difficult first day and despite their good level of rugby, the Swiss U18 youngsters were defeated by Ireland, Germany and Czechia. Demonstrating great team spirit and a strong desire to win, the young Swiss players left the pitch on the second day with 2 convincing wins against Turkey and Ukraine, allowing them to finish 9th and securing their well deserved spot in the Championship series at the highest European level.

As expected, France and Ireland dominated the tournament and were the outstanding winners in the semi-finals against Portugal and Spain. In a superb final in front of 700 spectators and fans from Ireland, Germany, Spain and Ukraine, France beat Ireland to retain their title, while Portugal took 3rd place after defeating Spain. Turkey and Israel, who finished 11th and 12th respectively, were relegated to the lower division.

Congratulations to the Swiss U18 youngsters for their 9th rank and for securing their standing in the Championship series!

A special thanks to the Jura3Lac clubs and in particular to RC Biel/Bienne for their support in turning this weekend in Macolin into an amazing rugby festival.

Line-up U18

• Teo Baccetta
• James Beresford
• Finn Buri
• Ricky Cronson
• Cian Dennehy Vasquez
• Leonard Duport
• Maxime Evrard
• Gabriel Ernandez Baigorria
• Paul Halter
• Finlay Hughes
• Gabriel Rouelle Mourot
• Alex Wood
• Adrien Zoganas

Coaches: Jossline Lapierre, Simon Berruyer
Physio: Simon Tonnelier

Results

• IRE 31 : 19 SUI (Day 1)
• CZE 33 : 7 SUI (Day 1)
• GER 19 : 12 SUI (Day 1)
• CH 21 : 14 TUR (Day 2)
• CH 14 . 10 UKR (Day 2)