The two day competition in Brive, France, comprising of the 12 best teams in Europe, is followed by the second leg in Marbella on the weekend of June 15th and 16th.
Wales face a tough ask initially after being drawn in a group with Russia, Netherlands, England, Portugal and Germany.
Nonetheless, after a successful tournament at last weekend’s Bournemouth Sevens, Wales will be hopeful of upsetting one or two of the bigger names.
The other pool comprises of Spain, France, Italy, Scotland, Ireland and Ukraine with any points gained this weekend rolling over to the tournament in Marbella.
“These two tournaments are a great opportunity to expose players to international rugby against some of the best teams in the world,” said head coach Edwards.
“The key is to do that whilst still focusing on developing the fundamental skills and game understanding of the players in our squad.”
Once the pool stages are complete, the tournament divides into a cup, plate and bowl format with the sides finishing in the bottom two places relegated to the Series A competition for next year.
While Wales will be underdogs, they have the chance to shock some of the more established names who are using these two tournaments to prepare for this summer’s Sevens World Cup in Moscow.
And after a positive showing in Bournemouth, where Wales won all but one of their games to reach the final, they won’t lack for confidence. Captain Elinor Snowswill and Elen Evans both produced standout performances on the south coast and will be key players for Wales again this weekend. Wales will be looking to Snowswill in particular, given her experience and consistent performances in this competition last year.
Young Pencoed playmaker Robyn Wilkins is another who has impressed head coach Edwards recently while Sioned Harries, who is an experienced international in the full form of the game, could be one to watch in the pack in what is her first full season playing sevens.
“It’s exciting to have the sevens programme back up and running and to be included in the Grand Prix Series,” said WRU Women’s Performance Manager Sophie Bennett.
“It’s great to see some of our younger players coming through the regional development programmes and using sevens as a stepping stone to the full international programme.
“Hopefully it will help to produce players for the upcoming Six Nations and ultimately, the 2014 World Cup.”
Wales Squad: Amy Day (Cardiff Quins), Rhiannon Parker (Bristol Ladies), Elen Evans (Waterloo), Rafique Taylor (Pontyclun), Elinor Snowsill, (Captain – Bristol Ladies), Philippa Tuttiett (Cardiff Quins), Robyn Wilkins (Pencoed), Sioned Harries (Cardiff Quins), Nia Davies (Cardiff Met), Dyddgu Hywel (Bristol Ladies), Charlie Murray (Neath Athletic), Carys Phillips (Cardiff Met).
