AUSSIES PREPARE FOR SHOT GUN START TO HYPERION GOLD COAST SEVENS

Rugby Sevens, November 12: The Aussie Thunderbolts Rugby Sevens team was put through their final paces at Southport today as they prepare for a successful showing at this weekend's Hyperion Gold Coast International Sevens starting tomorrow at Albert Park.

Having only their first and only run through as a complete unit on the eve of the event, the Australian team boasts Commonwealth Games stars, Shaun Foley and Ed Jenkins but is expected to face some stiff opposition at the world class rugby event now in its second year on the coast.

Head coach and dual international, Michael O'Connor believes his troops will know they're in a battle when they face off against the likes of a near full strength Samoan outfit along with strong New Zealand and Fijian sides in the 20 team men's competition.

"Without a doubt Samoa have a very strong outfit, along with New Zealand and Fiji you just don't know what you're going to get," O'Connor said.

"This is our new squad and our first training session so combinations are such an important part of the game and is why at this tournament we really want to work on those things."

According to O'Connor the Commonwealth silver medal was just the motivation needed for Australia's tilt at the IRB Sevens World Series with this stepping stone event here on the Gold Coast before round one starts in Dubai early next month.

"It's important that we get off to a good start in Dubai and preparation is everything so that is why game time is so important and why this tournament on the Gold Coast is fantastic."

"We finished eighth two years ago on the IRB standings and third last year behind New Zealand and Samoa so that's how far we've come. We're tracking in the right direction and want to continue that form starting this weekend."

The two day non-stop tournament kicks off at 8:30am and will also witness seven women's teams go head to head including several national Wallaroos players forming the International Samurai Warriors team including Kristy Giteau, Cheryl Soon and Sharni Williams.