Rugby officials tout game as modern and youthful ahead of Olympic vote

Rugby officials tout game ahead of Olympic vote

COPENHAGEN — Rugby is making its case to join the Olympics, touting the sport as a modern game that can attract young fans.

Rugby sevens and golf are on the ballot Friday for inclusion in the 2016 and 2020 Summer Games. Both sports made 20-minute presentations to the International Olympic Committee.

Rugby bid leader Mike Miller called rugby sevens a “modern, youthful and skillful sport” that was made for television and sponsors and “loved by fans and players alike.”

Rugby has proposed a seven-a-side tournament for 12 men’s and 12 women’s teams.