The countdown is on for the Dubai 7s, and the Olorun Sharks – a dynamic, multi-national invitational sevens team founded by Abercrave-based Olorun Sportswear – are gearing up to take their place on one of the sport’s most iconic stages later this week.
The Dubai 7s is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier rugby sevens tournaments, drawing elite and emerging talent from across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas. This year, the Olorun Sharks are fielding a squad that reflects both rugby pedigree and global diversity, bringing together players from Wales, South Africa, Sweden, Nigeria, Ireland, Australia and England.
A Truly International Line-Up
The Sharks’ 2024 squad blends youth, experience, and international flair. The full team includes:
Jac Bennet (Wales – Narberth RFC)
Miguel Andrade (South Africa – Western Province 7s)
Sam Potter (Wales – Llandovery)
Ioan Evans (Wales – Pontypool)
Hannes Nylén (Sweden – Sweden 7s)
Zak Chukwuemeka (Nigeria/England – Bristol University)
Ioan Davies (Wales – Newport RFC)
Tiernan White (Ireland – Rhinos Rugby Academy)
Adam Waldron (Australia/England – Shogun RFC)
Connor Tantum (Wales – Neath RFC)
Thomas Jevons (Wales – Bridgend RFC)
With players representing varied domestic leagues – from Welsh Premiership sides to university programmes, professional academies, and international sevens systems – the squad has been built to compete with the pace, skill, and unpredictability the Dubai 7s is known for.
Inspired by a Winning Legacy
The Olorun Sharks were founded by Marc de Marigny, former Springbok 7s captain and Dubai 7s champion, along with player Thomas Jevons, who established the team out of a desire to give players access to the same life-changing opportunities he experienced.
“Winning the Dubai 7s with the Springbok 7s is something I’ll never forget,” said de Marigny.
“This tournament offers more than competition – it creates memories, friendships, and pathways. We built this team so players at different stages of their rugby journey can experience all the Dubai 7s has to offer.”
Regional Backing Behind the Team
The team’s journey has received support from several regional businesses including Castell Howell, Noox Revive, and Believe Digital, the Bristol-based digital marketing agency with strong commercial ties across Wales and the Middle East.
believe.digital founder Rob Colbourn said:
“With our connections in Dubai and across South Wales, supporting the Sharks felt like a natural fit.
We’re proud to help shine a spotlight on such a talented and diverse squad. Rugby and community involvement are part of our DNA, so backing this team is something we’re genuinely excited about.”
Tournament Kick-Off
The Olorun Sharks will take on 10 other teams across two pools over three days of fast-paced action.
The Dubai 7s begins Friday 28th November at 9:40am UK time, with the Sharks making their first appearance later that day against San Francisco’s Golden Gate Storm. Kick-off is set for 1:20pm UK time.
The full schedule for the 3-day tournament can be accessed here.
Olorun Sharks Dubai 7s Results
Check back for updates over the weekend!
Ready to grow your business?
We handle digital marketing, web development and data analytics for UK businesses.