The SA Rugby Sevens Academy ended their two week South American by adding the Sudamericarugby 7s tournament in Vina del Mar, Chile, to the one they won in Uruguay.
Coach Marius Schoeman can look back on the trip with satisfaction not only because of the two trophies, but also because Sharks fullback Rhyno Smith, and three former SA Schools Sevens players, Muller du Plessis, Angelo Davids and Henk Cilliers, were introduced to the rigours of international sevens rugby.
"We are delighted in the outcome of the trip," said Schoeman in a SA Rugby press release.
"Not only did the squad play to their full potential on Sunday to win the title, we also ticked other important boxes like blooding new players into the system and confirming the belief that our sevens structures are sound.
"We faced a host of international teams in South America and with two spots for the World Cup Sevens on offer, they came with a great purpose. Congratulations to Chile and Uruguay, who in the end qualified."
Schoeman's team had to overcome tough opening day in Vina del Mar, where they lost to Ireland and drew against Brazil. They found their form on day 2 though, first easing past Germany 26-12 in the quarterfinal and then Uruguay 29-7 in the semifinal.
The SA Rugby Sevens Academy were even more clinical in the final, during which they outplayed the French Academy to win 34-7.
"That big score against France was a true reflection of how well the guys did in that final," said Schoeman.
"We certainly played below our standards on Saturday, but Sunday was very pleasing, as the guys responded brilliantly. We are very proud of their effort.
"Winning was not our main aim on this trip, as the key purpose was to develop our next group of Blitzboks. Winning both tournaments certainly was a huge bonus for us, and well-deserved for the players.
"They were out of their comfort zones in the last two weeks, but showed great character and trusted the system, which rewarded them. I just want to thank everyone back home as well for the support and encouragement to the squad. It helped a lot."
Dewald Human, who captained the SA Rugby Sevens Academy on tour, also praised his troops: "We grew as a group over the two weeks and that showed in the final, where they guys really expressed themselves.
"It was a rewarding trip, as we not only developed as players, but as people as well. A huge thank you to everyone who made this possible and for the support we received from all over. We really enjoyed the two tournaments and appreciate all the hard work by all to make it possible," said Human.