Years of dedication and hard work have culminated in a momentous occasion for the British Army rugby team, celebrating the legacy started by pioneers of the game. Former players such as 2005 World Cup 7s champion Apolosi Satala and former England 7s representative Isoa Damudamu played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the team’s participation in Fiji.
Discussions about establishing a British Army 7s team began when Satala and Damudamu were active players, ultimately leading to this significant moment. The head coach, Joe Nayacavou, a former Scotland 7s player who participated in 38 World Series events, is preparing his squad for the upcoming McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s, set to kick off in Sigatoka on Thursday.
Having previously enjoyed success with the squad that clinched the 2016/17 London Sevens title and represented Scotland in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, Nayacavou emphasized the unique experience of competing in Fiji. He remarked, “Even though the game itself was invented in Scotland, everyone believes that Fiji is where you come to test the best.”
The team recently faced the intense heat of Suva, which will be a factor to consider as they gear up for their matches in Sigatoka. In their opening game on Thursday, Nayacavou’s players will challenge Elia Canakaivata’s Drua at Lawaqa Park at 11:40 AM, with the match available for viewers to watch live on FBC Sports.
This event not only highlights the commitment of the British Army team but also reinforces the significance of rugby as a unifying sport, especially in a country like Fiji, known as the spiritual home of rugby 7s. The anticipation surrounding the tournament instills hope for exciting matches and a celebration of sport and heritage.
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