Nicolás Garafulic aims to elevate Chilean rugby during the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series in Cape Town. His experiences and skills from prior tournaments guide his efforts as he transitions between formats, with a focus on achieving team success and World Cup qualifications. Despite setbacks, he remains optimistic about sustaining growth in the sport.
Nicolás Garafulic, a promising Chilean rugby player, is set to make his mark at the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series in Cape Town. This picturesque venue, with Table Mountain as a backdrop, serves as a perfect host for the tournament. While the beauty of the city captivates him, Garafulic’s primary focus remains on the game, as he prepares to compete against teams like Portugal and Tonga at the Athlone Sports Stadium.
Garafulic’s rugby journey started early under the influence of his father, Juan Pablo, who had his career cut short due to injury. He honed his skills in the Craighouse Old Boys club and eventually rose through the ranks to represent Chile at various levels, including U20 and senior squads. His transition from playing in the forwards to a wing position allowed him to showcase his versatility on the field.
One of his career highlights was playing a crucial role in Chile’s qualification for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, a landmark achievement celebrated by his family who supported him throughout his journey. However, an unfortunate injury prevented him from taking the field during the World Cup matches in France, although he remained involved in other capacities.
In 2024, he excelled in both XV and sevens formats, helping the Chilean team secure a silver medal at the Pan American Games after a series of busy matches. As he prepares to play both formats this season, he confidently acknowledges that the transition from XVs to sevens has become more seamless over time for him.
Despite near success in Madrid, where Chile missed the Series qualification by just two points, Garafulic is focused on their ambitious goals for the current season. He emphasizes the importance of gameplay strategy, possession, and their physical advantages as they aim to secure a place in prestigious tournaments like Los Angeles and ultimately the HSBC SVNS Series.
Looking ahead, Garafulic expresses optimism about Chilean rugby’s potential for sustainability in both XVs and sevens. With a young squad and a strong infrastructure, he believes they can compete effectively on both fronts, reinforcing the future of rugby in Chile.
Nicolás Garafulic’s aspirations for the Chilean rugby team showcase his commitment to both personal growth and team success. With significant achievements in sevens and an unwavering focus on qualification for major tournaments, he represents a bright future for Chilean rugby. Garafulic’s experience and adaptability will be instrumental as the team navigates both challenges and opportunities ahead.
Original Source: www.rugbypass.com
