More than a thousand young ball players flocked to the field for two annual tournaments in Dunedin yesterday.
About 116 teams took part in the day of friendly competition at the Green Island Junior Football Club sevens tournament, while the Taieri Rugby Football Club junior sevens tournament drew a record-setting 77 teams.
Taieri Rugby Football Club Ground official Tania Burton said it was great to see such a big turnout — the seven-a-side tournament had never had so many participants before.
Seventy-seven teams took part in the event at Mosgiel’s Peter Johnstone Park, about 10 more than last year, she said.
It was an annual fundraising event for the club, and also a way to unite for a day early in the season.
"It’s the Dunedin community coming together for a great day of rugby," she said.
Young players in a range of team colours faced off against each other on the field, encouraged by crowds of family and supporters.
Players ranged from those in year 2 to those in year 8.
It was amazing to see how much support the event had from the community, including from local businesses.
It was the 63rd time the event had been held, and it was a "well-oiled machine".
However, small changes occurred — this year for the first time the tournament was technology-based, with a digital scorecard for those who wished to keep track on their phones.
Not far away at Sunnyvale Sports Centre, a similar event was being held, but instead of rugby the young players were honing their football skills.
The annual seven-a-side Green Island junior football tournament was held for the 48th time.
Among the crowds supporting from the sideline was Euan Kirkland, whose son played for Maori Hill Junior Football Club.
Blue skies made for good playing conditions, he said. Games were very tight and competitive, and "lots of fun" to watch.
The highlight was the last game, which had been neck-and-neck before going into extra time.
"So that was brilliant, and our team won."
