South African 7s Genius talks Emirates Dubai 7s

"In 2014, I was attending Manchester Metropolitan University completing my degree in Events Management and playing semi-professionally at Sedgley Park Tigers. I was considering whether or not to do a Masters Degree in Sports Directorship. As I researched this I came across a twitter address @1+1=5

Behind that tweet was Paul Treu and for the last two years we have exchanged tweets without ever meeting. Paul’s pedigree in 7s rugby is quite incredible so I asked him for his memories of the Dubai 7s.” commented Talking Rugby Union’s Max Ashcroft as I discussed the Dubai 7s with him this week.

Paul is a former rugby union player and is the current defence coach of the Stormers (Western Province). He played for the South African 7s from 1999 to 2003. He was named as their coach in 2004, where he was to stay until his resignation in 2013. Following this successful term with the Boks, he headed off for a new challenge. That was as Head Coach of Kenya. This period saw Kenya gain respect and credibility on the World 7s circuit and after his departure in December 2014 the rise of Kenya 7s has continued. 

Paul sent us a DM via Twitter to recount memories of Dubai 7s:

“Two moments that standout. In 2008 we won the Dubai 7s semi-final with a drop goal against Fiji. The drop goal was from the current Springbok 15s backline coach, Mzwandile Stick. We then went on to win the final against England. The other special moment was the comeback in 2006 on a flooded pitch versus NZ. What made 2008 special was that it was part of our first back to back victories {Dubai and George}. Winning our first home tournament and eventually winning our first Series in the history of Springbok 7s”

For further details and available packages for the Dubai 7s 2016 please visit