Canada Sevens coach Shane Thompson has selected a blend of youth and experience in his squad for their first appearances on the IRB Sevens World Series 2008/09 in Wellington and San Diego next month.

Thompson has elected to use 15 players over the two legs with three players freshening up the squad for the San Diego leg on 14-15 February, including Dave Moonlight.

His former team-mate retired from the Sevens circuit in 2007, but Thompson is eager to see Moonlight back in action and staking his claim for a place in Canada’s squad for Rugby World Cup Sevens 2009 in Dubai.

“It was a surprise that he wanted to be considered, but we invited him and he did very well,” said Thompson, whose side will face South Africa, Scotland and Japan in Pool C at the World Cup.

“He has a lot of experience – and scored over 100 tries on the circuit, and that is something we are lacking in terms of offensive output.

Teenager given chance to impress

“We are trying to get the twelve best guys ready for the World Cup, so being able to see Dave perform at the San Diego Sevens was going to be our only opportunity so I am glad it worked out.”

While Moonlight, Ciaran Hearn and Adam Kleeberger willonly join the team for San Diego, the squad heading for Wellington blends experience with the potential of a teenage newcomer.

Morgan Williams, who came out of retirement himself last season, provides experience along with the likes of Neil Meechan, Phil Mack, Phil Mackenzie and Tony La Carte.

At the other end of the scale, Sean Duke gets a chance to show what he can do on the Series after helping Canada qualify for RWC Sevens 2009, while 19-year-old Sean White will make his first Sevens tour.

Canada face England, Argentina and France in Pool C at the NZI Sevens in Wellington on 6-7 February, before South Africa, Australia and USA await them at PETCO Park in San Diego a week later.

Canada Sevens squad:
Nanyak Dala, Sean Duke, Bryn Keys, Jordan Kozina, Tony La Carte, Chauncey O'Toole, Philip Mack, Philip Mackenzie, Neil Meechan, Gordie Sawers, Morgan Williams, Sean White.

Non-travelling reserves or San Diego additions:
Alex Ackerley, Ciaran Hearn, Adam Kleeberger, Nolan Miles, Dave Moonlight