In a standout display, the Leoncitas secured a notable runner-up finish in the European Rugby M18 Sevens tournament. A remarkable generation of players is emerging, with young internationals consistently showing courage and resolve. They pushed hard through every minute of the demanding Sevens format, and their performance on Saturday already positioned them for podium contention. The squad remained cohesive on Sunday and even challenged a very strong France, a team widely regarded as one of the elite hands in the competition.
Spanish selection
Claudia Cano reaches a new personal milestone in her still early rugby career, inspiring many young players from Alicante who see a pathway to national recognition through hard work. Her club, Akra Bárbara, takes pride in the athlete’s disciplined attitude throughout the tournament. Even a silver medal alongside the squad is celebrated as a sign of progress and a dream realized for the club, which values daily effort and growth. The club’s president, Manuel Cano, expressed joy at seeing players reach the national team and compete at the highest levels, emphasizing ongoing efforts to sustain this path for future stars. This moment marks not only achievement but also the start of a hopeful chapter for more players to follow the same journey.
Claudia Cano from Alicante is called up by Spain to play in the European Rugby Championship
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The achievement carries significance beyond individual honors. It reflects the club’s growing strength across its core age groups. Recent results include Valencia Community champions in the U-16 7s and runners-up in the U-18 7s. The region also saw U-16 players claim silver in the Spanish Championship 7s with the FRCV and U-18 squads secure bronze in the same competition. Claudia Cano’s standout performance culminated in a silver medal with the Rugby Europe Sevens M18 competition alongside the national team.