05 September 2026

Navy 7s Season of Growth as Squads Build Strength

Written by Sharks, Stingrays and Mako

The Royal Navy 7s programme enjoyed another successful summer of development, competition and growth in 2026, with the Sharks (Representative), Mako and Stingrays (Community) all making significant strides both on and off the field.

A revamped programme structure laid the foundations for success, with three dedicated Wednesday training sessions followed by a three-week pre-season camp at RNAS Yeovilton. The camp brought players and staff together before a busy summer of competition and proved instrumental in building squad cohesion, establishing standards, team ethos and preparing players for the demands of sevens rugby.

Across all three teams, Royal Navy Rugby's core objectives remained clear: to provide opportunities for emerging talent, develop players and leaders, expose personnel to elite competition and represent the Service with pride at home and abroad (more on that later).

Sharks Compete at the Highest Level

The Sharks continued to test themselves against some of the strongest opposition on the domestic sevens circuit, competing in six prestigious tournaments throughout the summer. Their campaign included appearances at Devon 7s, Summer Social 7s, Algarve 7s, British Elite 7s, LIT 7s and JF Wimbledon 7s, as well as a valuable overseas visit to Portugal.

While silverware proved elusive, the Sharks consistently challenged at the sharp end of elite competition, reaching two Elite Plate finals and several semi-finals throughout the season. More importantly, the programme continued to deliver on its development objectives.

A total of 29 players represented the Sharks during the summer, including nine making their Royal Navy 7s debut. Several of these newcomers produced performances that marked them out as players with significant potential for progression through the representative pathway.

The Portugal tour, coordinated by Micky Hutton, was a particular highlight, providing players with invaluable experience of travelling, preparing and competing in an international tournament environment. Combined with the high standards set throughout the domestic programme, it ensured players were exposed to the challenges and expectations of elite sevens rugby.

Behind the scenes, the coaching, medical and management teams once again delivered exceptional support, maintaining a player-focused environment that allowed the squad to continue developing throughout the season.

Mako Deliver Historic Tournament Success

The Mako enjoyed one of their strongest seasons to date, continuing their reputation as a crucial development step within the Royal Navy Rugby pathway.

Seven new players joined the programme in 2026, adding depth and increasing competition for places across the squad. The blend of experienced sevens specialists and talented players emerging from both Service and civilian rugby backgrounds created a strong and competitive environment throughout the summer.

The defining moment of the season came at the FB7s tournament in Reading, where the Mako claimed their first Open competition title. In a thrilling final, the team secured a dramatic 24 - 22 victory with the winning try scored from the final play of the match.

That success was part of an impressive overall campaign that saw the Makos win 70 per cent of their fixtures, scoring 286 points across the season. The team's resilience was particularly noteworthy, with the squad frequently travelling with reduced numbers but continuing to compete fiercely and maintain high standards throughout.

Perhaps the programme's greatest achievement, however, remains its role in developing future Royal Navy representative players. Following another productive campaign, the expectation is that many of the season's new recruits will progress into the RNRU Development Squad, highlighting the effectiveness of the Mako as a breeding ground for future talent.

Stingrays Establish Strong Foundations

The Stingrays' 2026 season was defined by growth, learning and the development of a strong squad identity.

Competing at Devon 7s, North Dorset 7s, Summer Social 7s, Egham 7s and Solent 7s, the focus throughout the season was on building combinations, understanding player strengths and developing cohesion rather than purely chasing results.

The benefits of the pre-season camp were evident throughout the campaign. Players entered the competitive season with an understanding of the team's expectations and a strong sense of ownership, allowing the squad to grow steadily from tournament to tournament.

One of the most impressive aspects of the season was the player-led culture that developed within the group. The enthusiasm and commitment shown by the squad allowed standards established during pre-season to be maintained despite changes within the coaching structure during the summer.

The Stingrays also benefitted from outstanding support from the medical team, whose work throughout the season ensured players received consistent care and support across the demanding tournament schedule.

While results only tell part of the story, the foundations laid throughout 2026 provide plenty of optimism for the seasons ahead. The squad leaves the campaign with a clearer identity, stronger cohesion and a platform from which to continue developing.

Building for the Future

Across the Sharks, Mako and Stingrays, the 2026 season demonstrated the growing strength and depth of Royal Navy Sevens.

New players were identified and developed, representative opportunities expanded, and all three squads continued to strengthen the pathway that supports Royal Navy Rugby. Whether competing for trophies, gaining valuable international experience or building the foundations for future

success, the programme once again showcased the talent, commitment and character that exists throughout the Service.

With lessons learned, new talent emerging and strong foundations already in place, attention now turns to 2027, where the Royal Navy 7s programme will look to build on another highly encouraging season.

Images by Max Ross, Cinnabar Studios, Blue Beard and Luis Capelo