5000+ kids to experience HSBC SVNS Vancouver for free at Youth Super Session

Friday January 12, 2024 (Vancouver, BC) - The rugby sevens Youth Super Session is set to return for the 2024 HSBC SVNS Vancouver tournament, an initiative started in 2023 that invites schools in Greater Vancouver to attend the event free of charge. 

Held in collaboration with the Vancouver School Board and in partnership with the BC Sports Hall of Fame, and Kids Up Front, over 5000 kids will have the opportunity to attend matches at BC Place Stadium on Friday February 23, the opening day of HSBC SVNS Vancouver. 

“The Youth Super Session was a highlight of last year’s event, and we are thrilled to once again be giving thousands of kids the opportunity to experience the speed, strength and excitement of sevens,” said Ryan Jones, Rugby Canada Rugby Development Manager. “We have heard from many teachers about the inspiring impact this experience had on their students last year. For many children, this is likely their first time witnessing high performance sport in person, or their first time cheering on Canada’s sevens teams or entering BC Place. We know the impact these types of experiences having on growing the game and leaving a legacy, and we greatly look forward to welcoming schools back to BC Place on February 23.”

“Last year, our kindergarten to grade seven school was privileged to attend a Vancouver Sevens,” said Lori Prodan, Principal of šxʷwəq̓ʷəθət Crosstown Elementary. “As we are within easy walking distance of BC Place, it was an amazing community experience. We all loved the fast pace of the game and the fun atmosphere of the event itself.  For most students, it was their first time attending a rugby game and the experience was inspiring and memorable!” 

The Youth Super Session comes at the end of two months of programming with local schools, with 1200 kids from 12 schools getting an introduction to the sport over the course of four to six weeks in January and February. This program will be led by Rugby Canada Sessional Coaches and volunteer coaches from the Justice Rugby Football Club. Additional events will be held in the week leading up to HSBC SVNS Vancouver, with hundreds more schoolkids learning about the sport through community visits. 

Information on how teachers can register for their class to attend the Youth Super Session has been distributed to the Vancouver School Board. Please contact your school administrator for more information.