The 21-year-old Chiwawa was so impressive that he was approached by several scouts, and a scholarship to an elite rugby college programme is now on the cards.
Both Chiwawa and Al Hendi, 20, played for the Selects team at the tournament, held in Las Vegas from March 4-6. They were recommended by former Quins player-coach Jeremy Manning, who had previously played for the team.
Chiwawa took full advantage, scoring six tries and adding four conversions for a personal tally of 38 points, which also helped him earn his team’s MVP award.
Al Hendi crossed for three tries and kicked two conversions for 19 points in three games as Selects easily progressed through their group in the Open category before eventually losing in the final.
“It was definitely different to any sevens tournament I’ve played in before, very competitive and playing with and against some of top college athletes in the US,” said Chiwawa.
“My coaches were very impressed by what they saw of me, I played the most games out of all the players and my team-mates and coaches voted me the MVP, which I was humbled to receive and shocked to get because of the amount of quality players on our side.
“I was very happy with my performance. They invited me and Adel back again next year. I even caught the eye of a few university scouts and moving to the US for a rugby scholarship with an elite university is a possibility now for next season.
“I haven’t decided where to go yet but with a few options on the table I will definitely end up back in the US for sure. For now I’ll continue to train hard and prepare for the next sevens tournament in Amsterdam.”
