Approximately 2,000 people packed into Jamberoo over the weekend for the 26th annual Jamberoo Sevens football tournament - and not even the rain could put a damper on the fun.

Beginning on Friday evening and wrapping up on Saturday night, 90 teams competed in more than 150 matches across seven divisions.

“Games flowed, results were updated live, and the finals program wrapped up on Saturday evening without delays,” said Jamberoo Football Club president Alan Smith.

“We were also extremely fortunate with the weather. Storms rolled through early Friday afternoon and returned again on Saturday night, but the competition itself slotted neatly in between.”

Once again, the weekend proved a highlight for teams travelling long distances - particularly a Brazilian team that has made it a tradition to return each year.

“The word we heard again and again was ‘stunning.’ Teams arrived, set up camp, looked around the valley and simply said, ‘How good is this place?’” said Smith.

“One long-standing Brazilian team, who have travelled to Jamberoo for many years, described the drive down through the valleys - the moment the fields open up, the air, the colour, and the sense of arrival.

“For them, Jamberoo isn’t just a venue; it’s a place of inspiration and emotional connection - somewhere they feel drawn back to year after year. That sentiment was echoed right across the weekend.”

While the tournament isn’t solely about winners, friendly rivalries and the chance to etch names into Jamberoo Sevens history are always part of the appeal - and this year just one side managed to successfully defend their title.

“The football was outstanding,” said Smith.

This year’s champions were:

Men’s Open: Young Guns Canarinhos

Men’s O35: Jamberoo Pub

Men’s O45: Legends Canarinhos

Men’s O55: Leroys Rejects

Women’s Open: Navy FFA

Women’s O30: Undecided FC

Women’s O40: Loftus Rovers

“Only one team went back-to-back this year - Jamberoo Pub in the Men’s O35s - which really underlines how competitive and unpredictable the sevens format is.

"There were also genuine underdog stories, particularly in the women’s and masters divisions.”

After another successful year, Smith is already looking ahead.

“We’re already planning for 5 and 6 February next year. With so many teams keen to return, the event could grow again, and we’re exploring additional pitch options to allow more games to run concurrently,” he said.

“At the same time, we’re very conscious of protecting what makes Jamberoo Sevens special - the setting, the community feel, and the balance between serious football and genuine enjoyment.

"Growth is welcome, but only if it strengthens that identity.”