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| Orlando at the Madness 7s |
The favorites to win the tournament are the hosts New Orleans. The clubs has enjoyed tremendous success over the last several years at the 15s level making it to the semi-finals in 2013 and then the final this year. That success has also translated over to the 7s side where they took home the Bowl at last year's tournament. Their back play is strong and playing at home will be a major advantage. Chance Doyle was one of the standout players at the Elite City 7s and should be a part part of NOLA's drive to make it to Seattle.
Other teams to watch out for this weekend in Atlanta Old White and the Florida Heat. Old White have been a 7s power in the South for awhile and a consistent qualifier for Nationals. Last year the team finished second in its group that included Belmont Shore, Old Aztecs, and the Titans from Hawaii. Expect them to once again showed skilled 7s. Florida Heat is the new name for Daytona. Like Atlanta they have had their fair share of success in the South. However, last year they missed out on qualification.
The other teams participating in the tournament include Charlotte, Birmingham, and Orlando. Don't rule out Orlando making a strong run. They've won a few tournaments already this year and are an up and coming club. Charlotte similarly has nice players but will be without Matt Hughston who is at Eagles 7s camp.
Old White should have the easier of the two draws. They are in Pool A with Charlotte and Birmingham. Pool B has New Orleans, the Heat, and Orlando. NOLA should be favored in the pool but it wouldn't be a surprise to see someone else claim the top seed. The top two teams from the competition qualify for the National Club 7s.
| Pool A | Pool B | |||
| Q1 | Old White | Q4 | New Orleans | |
| Q2 | Charlotte | Q5 | Florida Heat | |
| Q3 | Birmingham | Q6 | Orlando |