Fiji Rugby has announced the appointment of Ioan Cunningham, the former head coach of the Wales Women’s rugby team, to lead the Vodafone Fijiana XV in their upcoming campaign at the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Cunningham boasts a rich coaching portfolio, having guided both Wales Women’s and U20 teams through significant tournaments. He also gained valuable experience as the Forwards Coach for Scarlets, where he played a crucial role in their successful outings in the European Challenge Cup and the Heineken Champions Cup.
Cunningham’s strategic insights are expected to be instrumental as the Fijiana prepare to compete against teams from the Northern Hemisphere. His familiarity with their playing style, combined with his innovative approach to game planning, positions him well to enhance the team’s competitiveness on the international stage.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Cunningham remarked, “I am very excited to work with this group of athletes and staff. The potential of this group is huge… it is a very important year in women’s rugby, and I look forward to unlocking the talent within this team.” Fiji Rugby’s CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu echoed this sentiment, expressing confidence in Cunningham’s capabilities as the team gears up for the World Cup.
This new leadership marks a hopeful turning point for the Fijiana XV, who are set to compete in Pool B against formidable opponents including Canada, Scotland, and Wales. With Cunningham’s guidance and the team’s determination, there is optimism surrounding their potential to make a significant impact in the tournament, scheduled from August 22 to September 27 in England.
Cunningham’s arrival follows the resignation of Mosese Rauluni, who stepped down after a challenging period with mixed results leading to his departure. The Fijiana finished the WXV 3 tournament in fourth place and will be looking to build on their previous experiences as they prepare for the global stage.
Overall, this transition to a new coaching staff signifies not only a strategic move for Fiji Rugby but also an opportunity for the Fijiana XV to showcase their talents, embody the spirit of Fiji, and strive for excellence in women’s rugby.
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