The Sevens Veterans: Why Experience Matters in the Race to LA 2028
Rugby Australia’s recent re-signing announcements have sent ripples through the sevens community, but what’s truly fascinating is the strategic emphasis on experience. Olympians Maurice Longbottom and Josh Turner, alongside rising talent Will Cartwright, are back for another SVNS season—a move that, in my opinion, signals a calculated push toward Olympic qualification for LA 2028.
The Veterans’ Return: More Than Just a Contract Extension
Maurice Longbottom, nearing his 10th season and 1,000 career points, is a living legend in the sevens circuit. What makes this particularly fascinating is how his re-signing isn’t just about his on-field prowess. Longbottom’s 250+ matches in the gold jersey make him a mentor, a leader, and a walking playbook for younger players. Personally, I think his presence is as much about shaping the team’s culture as it is about scoring tries.
Josh Turner, meanwhile, is on the brink of his 50th cap—a milestone that underscores his consistency and adaptability. What many people don’t realize is that Turner’s journey from New Zealand-born flyer to Australian sevens stalwart reflects the global nature of the sport. His re-signing, alongside Longbottom’s, highlights Rugby Australia’s commitment to retaining a core group of players who know what it takes to compete at the highest level.
The Comeback Kid: Will Cartwright’s Second Chance
Will Cartwright’s re-signing is a different story altogether. After a shoulder injury cut short his promising debut season, his return is a testament to resilience. From my perspective, Cartwright represents the next generation of Australian sevens talent—hungry, dynamic, and eager to prove themselves. His double in Dubai last December wasn’t just a highlight; it was a glimpse of what he could bring to LA 2028.
The Bigger Picture: Building a Squad for the Olympics
Rugby Australia’s re-signing spree isn’t happening in a vacuum. With James Turner, Ben Dowling, James McGregor, and Harry Wilson also committing, the squad is shaping up to be a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars. One thing that immediately stands out is the intentionality behind these decisions. Director of High Performance Peter Horne’s comments about leadership and continuity aren’t just PR talk—they’re a roadmap.
If you take a step back and think about it, sevens rugby is as much about chemistry as it is about skill. The fast-paced, high-pressure nature of the game demands trust and understanding between players. By retaining Longbottom, Turner, and others, Rugby Australia is betting on that chemistry to pay dividends in Olympic qualifying.
Hidden Implications: The Psychological Edge
What this really suggests is that Rugby Australia is playing the long game. Re-signing veterans like Longbottom and Turner isn’t just about their individual contributions; it’s about the psychological edge they bring. These players have been here before—they know the pressure, the stakes, and the sacrifices required. For younger players like Cartwright, having these mentors in the squad is invaluable.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how this strategy contrasts with other nations’ approaches. While some teams prioritize youth and athleticism, Australia is doubling down on experience. It’s a bold move, but one that could pay off in a tournament as unpredictable as the Olympics.
Looking Ahead: The Road to LA 2028
The SVNS Series is more than just a circuit—it’s a proving ground. With Olympic qualification on the line, every match, every try, and every tackle matters. From my perspective, Australia’s re-signed squad has the right mix of skill, experience, and hunger to make a serious run at LA 2028.
But here’s the deeper question: Can experience outweigh the raw athleticism of younger teams? Personally, I think it’s a gamble worth taking. In a sport where margins are razor-thin, having players who’ve been there before could be the difference between qualification and heartbreak.
Final Thoughts: A Squad Built to Last
Rugby Australia’s re-signing announcements aren’t just about securing talent—they’re about building a legacy. Longbottom, Turner, and Cartwright aren’t just players; they’re pillars of a squad designed to compete at the highest level. As we look ahead to LA 2028, one thing is clear: this team isn’t just playing for the present—they’re playing for the future.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how it reflects a broader trend in sevens rugby: the balance between nurturing young talent and relying on proven veterans. In my opinion, Australia’s approach is a masterclass in squad-building—one that could very well pay off on the biggest stage of all.
