Alright, let's dive into something that's got the rugby world buzzing. Imagine this: the All Blacks Sevens, one of the most iconic teams in the sport, just announced their coaching lineup for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. And guess who’s stepping into a key role? None other than Liam Messam, a legend in both sevens and the traditional format. But here’s the thing—this isn’t just about Messam. It’s about a complete overhaul of the coaching setup, and personally, I think it’s a move that could redefine the team’s future.
First off, let’s talk about Willie Rickards, the new head coach. Rickards isn’t just some outsider; he’s been in the program for two years as an assistant. What makes this really interesting is his journey. He’s got 14 years of coaching under his belt, including a stint with the New Zealand U20s where he helped them clinch the World Rugby U20 Championship in 2017. In my opinion, this isn’t just a promotion—it’s a strategic play. Rickards knows the system, he’s got the respect of the players, and he’s got the experience to navigate the high-pressure world of international sevens rugby.
Now, let’s bring Scott Curry into the mix. Curry’s appointment as assistant coach is no small deal. With 321 games for the All Blacks Sevens and six World Series titles, he’s a walking encyclopedia of sevens rugby. But what many people don’t realize is that Curry’s leadership on the field translates into a unique coaching perspective. He’s not just there to teach skills; he’s there to instill the mindset that made him a champion. If you take a step back and think about it, having Curry in the coaching box is like having a player’s voice in the strategy room—something that could be a game-changer for team dynamics.
And then there’s Liam Messam, stepping in as performance coach. Messam’s resume is nothing short of impressive—43 caps for the All Blacks, a Rugby World Cup win in 2015, and two Commonwealth Games medals in sevens. But here’s where it gets fascinating: Messam’s role isn’t just about physical performance. From my perspective, his experience across both formats of the game gives him a unique insight into what it takes to excel in sevens. He’s not just a coach; he’s a bridge between the traditional and the modern game. This raises a deeper question: Can Messam’s dual expertise help the All Blacks Sevens find that elusive edge in a sport that’s becoming increasingly competitive?
What this really suggests is that New Zealand Rugby is doubling down on experience and continuity. Rickards, Curry, and Messam aren’t just coaches—they’re part of the All Blacks Sevens legacy. They’ve worn the jersey, they’ve felt the pressure, and they know what it takes to win. But here’s the kicker: the 2026-2027 HSBC SVNS Series is no walk in the park. The top four teams get automatic qualification for the 2028 Olympics, and the competition is fiercer than ever. Personally, I think this coaching trio has the right mix of skill, experience, and hunger to get the job done. But it’s not going to be easy.
One thing that immediately stands out is the emphasis on culture. Rickards mentioned honoring the legacy of the All Blacks Sevens while evolving the program. This isn’t just coach-speak—it’s a philosophy. The All Blacks Sevens jersey carries a weight of history, and these coaches understand that. But what makes this really interesting is how they plan to balance tradition with innovation. In a sport where tactics and athleticism are constantly evolving, finding that balance could be the key to success.
A detail I find fascinating is the timing of this announcement. With the first leg of the 2026-2027 SVNS Series kicking off in Dubai in November, the coaching staff has less than six months to get their vision in place. That’s a tight window, especially for a team with Olympic aspirations. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned about rugby, it’s that pressure can bring out the best in people. And with Rickards, Curry, and Messam at the helm, I’m willing to bet they’ll rise to the challenge.
So, here’s my closing thought: This coaching lineup isn’t just about the 2028 Olympics. It’s about rebuilding a dynasty. The All Blacks Sevens have had their ups and downs in recent years, but with this trio in charge, there’s a real sense of purpose. Will they succeed? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—this is a team worth watching. What do you think? Are Rickards, Curry, and Messam the right people to lead the All Blacks Sevens back to the top? Let me know in the comments below.
