A new champion will emerge in the main men’s category at the Fiji Bitter Mataso Sevens, which begins today at Churchill Park in Lautoka. This highly anticipated tournament features the top 7s teams competing for a prize pool of $6,000.
In total, 32 teams are set to participate, divided equally into the Elite pool and the Grassroots pool, with 16 teams in each. This year, a revamped format allows the top four teams from both pools to progress to the knockout stages, enhancing the opportunity for grassroots teams to make an impact and potentially reach the finals.
Tournament director James Vunituraga expressed his enthusiasm for the event, particularly highlighting the participation of notable teams such as the Fijian Drua 7s, two national Fiji 7s teams, and the potential appearance of Super Rugby players during the matches this weekend. With the reigning champions, the Dominion Brothers, not participating, a new winner will claim the title for 2024.
Vunituraga emphasized the competitive nature of the tournament, noting that the involvement of three national teams will serve as valuable preparation for both the Fijian Drua and Fiji 7s squads as they gear up for the 2025 Super Rugby Season and the World Rugby Sevens Series.
Fans can look forward to an exhilarating clash today at 9:12 AM, featuring the Fijian Drua 7s and Fiji 7s teams, as well as other exciting matchups among Fiji’s elite rugby 7s teams. Residents of Lautoka and surrounding areas are encouraged to come out, cheer for their teams, and enjoy the thrilling weekend of rugby with family and friends.
Confirmed teams in the Elite pool include well-documented names like the Fijian Drua 7s, TEMC Warriors, and Fiji Blue, while the Grassroots pool consists of teams such as Viwa Rugby, JSF Solevu Kings, and the Namacuku Brothers.
As the tournament unfolds, it represents not only a chance for new champions to rise but also an opportunity to foster community spirit and support for local rugby, potentially igniting a passion for the sport among families and fans alike.
The excitement surrounding the Fiji Bitter Mataso Sevens promises to deliver memorable moments on the field while also nurturing the development of rugby at all levels in Fiji.
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