Nicolás Garafulic is set to represent Chile in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series and XVs, aiming for significant achievements. He reflects on his rich rugby journey, family influences, and the importance of adapting to both game formats. Essential tournaments in Cape Town are on the horizon as Chilean rugby seeks to make an impactful presence internationally.
Nicolás Garafulic, a key figure in Chilean rugby, is aiming to achieve significant milestones with his national teams in both the HSBC World Rugby Sevens (SVNS) Series and XVs. Arriving in Cape Town, known for its picturesque rugby landscapes, he is determined to focus exclusively on rugby despite the city’s beauty. The first tournaments of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger are set to take place in the vibrant locale, where Garafulic’s aspirations come to fruition against challenging teams like Portugal and Tonga.
Garafulic’s journey in rugby began at a young age, inspired by his father’s commitment to the sport despite injury setbacks. Representing Chile through various age levels and transitioning from the forwards to the backs, he has established a versatile playing style. His noteworthy debut against the All Blacks at the Rugby World Cup Sevens serves as a highlight in his extensive rugby resume. Under the guidance of former coach Lemoine, Chilean rugby has seen a revival, with Garafulic become a formidable presence on the field.
The dream of participating in the Rugby World Cup was momentarily derailed by a muscle injury before their match against Japan, but Garafulic remained positive, supporting his team in other capacities. His familial bonds to rugby enriched his experience, as he shared the field with his brother Matías while their father cheered from the stands. Notably, Chile’s historic qualification for the Rugby World Cup marks a monumental achievement for the Garafulic family and Chilean rugby.
As Los Cóndores aim to return to the Rugby World Cup, Garafulic highlights the dual goals of securing a place in the XVs World Cup and earning a spot in the HSBC SVNS. Despite missing the opportunity to play in France, he shifted his focus to succeeding in the Pan American Games, where Chile clinched their first silver medal. This season is particularly crucial as he balances commitments between XVs and sevens rugby, striving to excel in both formats.
Garafulic’s experiences underscore the significance of adaptation between rugby formats while leveraging the youth and innovation within the squad. Reflecting on a near qualification last year, he acknowledges the pain of narrowly missing out, but remains resolute in pursuing the goal of competing in Los Angeles. The overall aims for Chilean rugby articulate a vision for growth and sustainability in the sport, ensuring their presence within the global rugby landscape.
Nicolás Garafulic is a prominent figure in Chilean rugby, supporting his teams with aspirations to excel in both XVs and sevens formats. His journey represents not only personal achievements but also the strides of Chilean rugby on the world stage. With a clear focus on upcoming tournaments and a supportive familial legacy, Garafulic embodies the hope for sustained growth and success in Chilean rugby.
Original Source: www.rugbypass.com
