The Howden Melrose Sevens has significantly expanded its youth offering for 2026, increasing the U18 Tournament to 16 teams after receiving more than 35 applications from across the UK and overseas.
Following a successful debut in 2025, where seven teams competed, the rapid growth of the competition highlights increasing demand for high-quality youth Sevens opportunities – and reinforces Melrose’s role in developing players from grassroots through to the senior game.
Clubs, schools and academy sides from Scotland, England, Wales and beyond will now take part in this year’s expanded tournament, with matches played across Melrose Rugby’s pitches before the final takes place on the Greenyards in front of thousands of spectators.
A Clear Pathway – From First Touch to Main Stage
The growth of the U18 Tournament sits at the centre of a wider pathway that now runs throughout the entire Melrose Sevens weekend.
Friday’s programme focuses on introduction and development. The Merchiston Rugby Clinic provides boys and girls aged 9-14 with the opportunity to learn new skills in a fun, supportive environment, while the inaugural Howden Girls Rugby Fest brings a new and important focus to the women’s and girls’ game – creating space for players to come together, train, play and experience the energy of Melrose Sevens.
Saturday then builds on that foundation, with the U18 Tournament offering a step into competitive Sevens at a higher level.
Together, these elements create a clear and visible pathway – from first experience of the game, through to performance rugby on one of the sport’s most iconic stages.
A Unique Opportunity for Young Players
One of the defining features of the U18 Tournament is the opportunity for players to step onto the Greenyards itself.
While early rounds take place across the club’s surrounding pitches, the final will once again be played on the main stage – giving young players a rare chance to perform in front of a large crowd at the home of Sevens.
Nick Green, U18 Tournament Lead, said:
“We introduced the U18 Tournament last year to strengthen the pathway into senior Sevens, and the response has been incredible. These players are the future of the game, so it’s important we give them the opportunity to experience Melrose Sevens early and understand what makes it so special.
What sets this tournament apart is the experience – from playing across the club’s pitches to the chance to step onto the Greenyards for the final, in front of thousands of supporters. That’s something very few players at this age get the opportunity to do.
To go from seven teams in our first year to over 35 applications this year shows just how much appetite there is for youth Sevens. Expanding to 16 teams, including sides from across the UK and internationally, allows us to grow the tournament while keeping that experience at its heart.
We’re really looking forward to welcoming the teams to Melrose and building something that will continue to grow in the years ahead.”
Supporting the Future of the Game
This expanded pathway is supported by partners including Howden, whose involvement in the Melrose Sevens spans both participation and performance elements of the weekend.
From initiatives such as the Howden Girls Rugby Fest through to the senior competitions, that support plays an important role in ensuring the event continues to evolve – while remaining rooted in the traditions that define Melrose.
At the Home of Sevens
It’s fitting that this growth is taking place in Melrose – the birthplace of rugby sevens.
For over a century, the Greenyards has been a stage where the game has evolved, from its origins in the Scottish Borders to a global format played around the world. Today, that same ground continues to play a role in shaping the future of the sport, providing opportunities for the next generation to experience Sevens in its most authentic setting.
Looking Ahead
With demand continuing to grow, expressions of interest for the 2027 U18 Tournament are now open via the website, with further expansion expected in the years ahead.