Strength in depth driving Aussie 7s

Australia are on track to secure an automatic qualification spot for the 2016 Olympics and boast the youngest squad on the World Series with talent aplenty at Walsh’s disposal.

Like New Zealand, Australia run national domestic sevens championships, and Walsh says these are proving invaluable.

“The standard and nature of the national titles is the first stage in filling the gap between international-level and club-level tournaments. It is creating a pathway to being a elite player and giving coaches and players the opportunity to perform at a level where skills and attributes can be tested at a level just below the elite.”

Walsh, a former international sevens player himself, believes there couldn’t be a better time than to be leading the Australian women’s side.

"It is a very privileged time to be working in Australian rugby sevens - particularly in the women’s sector. To be at the forefront of the fastest growing women’s sport in the world is both challenging and hugely rewarding.

“To blow our trumpet a little we are currently the most successful Australian rugby team in the country and on the verge of succeeding in our quest to be in the top four spots in the World Series that will ensure automatic qualification to the Olympic Games in Rio next year.”

Walsh adds that the women’s game needs to step up to the next level as it continues to develop.

“The constant challenge for the game remains the standard of tournaments below World Rugby (formerly IRB) level and the number of opportunities available for future Olympians to cut their teeth and develop through the pathway into an elite athlete.”

Ultimately I believe that what we need is a series of tournaments at both domestic and international levels to provide greater opportunities at an elite level. International Sevens athletes require resilience, adaption, touring experience and mental toughness that can only be gained from the rigorous requirements from touring and international experience."