The former Bridgend, Swansea and South Wales Police hooker coached the Welsh National Sevens team and was still a WRU Technical Advisor to the Wales Sevens team at the time of his death in 2009.
The inaugural Colin Hillman Invitational Sevens kicks off at 11am at the South Wales Police Rugby Ground in Waterton Cross, Bridgend with 10 teams competing.
The rugby competition takes place alongside a hog roast and BBQ with an outside licensed bar. There will also be children’s rides, stalls and a raffle on the day.
As well as playing for a number of Welsh clubs, Hillman also played for the Barbarians and Wales Sevens as his name became heavily associated with sevens both in a playing, coaching and managing role.
And the tournament, a brainchild of Colin’s son Matthew and Keith Miles, takes place for the first time with 10 local sides competing to win the trophy.
The teams taking part include: Bridgend Sports, Bridgend Athletic I, Bridgend Athletic II, Glaze Charity 7, Kenfig Hill, Maesteg, Nantymoel, South Wales Police Hillman 7, Dinas Powys and Samurai Sharks.
“It’s an idea we came up with over a pint and we spoke to the family and decided to give it the go ahead,” said Miles.
“It’s gone great and we are looking forward to it, we’re just hoping for some good weather now!
“We are hoping to run it next year, we’re just looking to find a date which doesn’t clash with other tournaments.”
All proceeds raised from the day will go to the Y Bwthyn Newydd Macmillan Specialist Care Unit at the Princes of Wales Hospital, Bridgend.
Before the semi-finals and final there will be an exhibition of tag rugby by junior teams while Bridgend Athletic’s Simon Mustoe has agreed to have his legs waxed for the charity regardless of how his team fares in the tournament.
Current Head coach of Wales Sevens Paul John will present the trophies while WRU Head of Rugby Joe Lydon will also attend.
“I’m really looking forward to attending the Colin Hillman Invitational Sevens,” said Lydon.
“The concept is a fitting tribute to Colin who was a an outstanding, well respected coach and a real friend and supporter of Sevens Rugby worldwide.”
