Stellenbosch gears up for the fourth annual Forward Faster Invitational Sevens

The fourth Forward Faster Invitational Sevens takes place on 24 and 25 October 2026 at the Paul Roos Markötter Fields in Stellenbosch.

Some of the region's top sevens teams will take part, including the South African Sevens side, which has competed in the tournament since its inception in 2023.

A unique pillar of this two-day event is that community and local rugby club teams get to test their mettle against the country's best sevens players. The tournament has also featured other professional and semi-professional teams in the past. Teams like SWD Eagles, South Africa Women's Sevens, SAS Rugby, UXi Rugby, Rhinos Academy, and so much more.

Community teams that have made their mark at this tournament include Gel Squad, Macassar RFC, Wits Barbarians, Jaguars, Chicago Blues, and Excelsiors, among others.

Players who have featured in this tournament in the past include the latest DHL Stormers signing, Lleyton Davids; Blitzbok and Sanlam Boland Kavalier speedster Renaldo Young; and Forward Foundation captain and recently South Africa 'A' squad member, Roland van der Heever.

Forward Foundation is a non-profit organisation (NPO) known for creating opportunities and a development mindset through its programmes. The rugby programme covers sevens, tens and touch rugby, and it opens doors for players from under-resourced neighbourhoods and socio-economically challenging communities.

Zhaun Booysen, Head of Rugby at Forward Foundation, said: "This is our fourth year hosting and it still means a lot to us. Our players have grown with every edition, and sharing a field with the country's best shows them how far they can go. They are well prepared and can't wait to play."

Patrick van Wyk, Forward Foundation Sevens coach, said: "Our players come from tough environments, and watching them rise above those challenges is what makes us proud as coaches. Four years in, this tournament gives them a stage they would not otherwise get."

Le Roux Conradie, Managing Director and Founder of Forward Foundation, said: "Four editions in, this tournament has become a fixture for rugby fans and a real platform for young players. We're grateful to our partners, whose support lets us keep growing it. Our aim has always been to move South Africa forward, faster, by giving athletes a stage to show what they can do."

Gates open at 8am each day, entry is R20 per person, and parking is free. Expect great talent on display, coffee and food stalls, and a great festival atmosphere.

About Forward Foundation

Forward Foundation is dedicated to propelling talented athletes forward in their sporting disciplines. By providing opportunities for training, exposure and growth, it aims to help people reach their full potential on and off the field.