Fijian Under-20 rugby coach Senirusi Seruvakula is focusing on long-term player development as he prepares the team for the upcoming Oceania Rugby U20s Challenge and Super Rugby U20 competitions. With a squad of 45 players, many of whom have come through the prestigious Deans rugby competition, Seruvakula prioritizes nurturing young talent and creating pathways to the senior Flying Fijians team.

Recognizing the potential within the current players, several of whom competed in last year’s World Rugby U20 Championship, Seruvakula aims to enable these young athletes to join the Flying Fijians by the age of 25, a shift from the traditional trend where players typically mature in their late twenties. “It’s the development that we need here in Fiji,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of early engagement in rugby to create a more competitive team.

Seruvakula’s vision encompasses a structured pathway that includes participants going through both the Fiji Warriors system and the Drua academy before representing the national team. His approach aims to challenge the perception that Fijian players peak later in their careers and instead reflects a belief that with the right support and training from a young age, they can thrive much sooner.

The team is currently in training camps located in Suva, Nadi, and Sigatoka, where overseas players are actively sending in training videos to remain integral to the squad’s preparation. A crucial fitness test is scheduled for next week, which will help finalize the roster of 30 players by the end of January.

In terms of competition, the upcoming Oceania tournament is highly anticipated and will see Fiji face off against teams from Tonga, Samoa, and Moana Pasifika. Following this tournament, the team is set to compete in the Super Rugby U20 competition, further enhancing their international experience.

Seruvakula’s commitment to developing the next generation of Fijian rugby talent instills optimism and hope within the rugby community, signaling a bright future for the sport in the region. This approach not only aligns with fostering local talent but also illustrates a growing investment in youth rugby, paving the way for potential success on the world stage.

In summary, with a proactive strategy focused on youth development and performance excellence, the Fiji Under-20 team is well-positioned to shine both domestically and internationally.