The Viti Roofing Devo Baba’s rugby team is eagerly preparing for the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s, which takes place from January 16-18 at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. As the tournament approaches, the team is completing their final week of training, focusing on gearing up to face some of the best regional squads.

Head coach Bill Ratute has expressed optimism about the team’s readiness. “This is our second week of preparation, and we are excited for what lies ahead. Over the years, we have enjoyed great matches against local teams, and participating in the Coral Coast 7s offers us a different level of competition,” he pointed out.

The Devo Baba’s are making their second appearance at the Coral Coast 7s, having debuted last year. Reflecting on that experience, Ratute noted, “Competing here is vastly different from our previous local tournaments due to the intense atmosphere and the quality of international teams present.”

This year, the tournament will feature 44 teams, including 16 international and 16 local squads. Ratute stressed the importance of this event, saying it provides a fantastic opportunity for his players to showcase their skills against renowned teams like the national 7s team and the Fijian Drua.

With a determination to excel in this prestigious tournament, the Devo Baba’s team looks forward to the challenges and hopes to achieve their goals over the three days. Ratute also took a moment to acknowledge the invaluable support of their sponsors over the years, reinforcing a sense of community and gratitude within the team.

As the Coral Coast 7s approaches, the excitement builds not just for the Devo Baba’s but also for many other grassroots teams participating, such as the Dominion Brothers and the Taikita Brothers. These teams share similar aspirations, emphasizing growth, learning, and inspiration, showcasing the vibrant rugby culture in Fiji.

This tournament represents a wonderful opportunity for these young athletes to display their talent on a larger stage, helping to inspire future generations and fueling ambitions within the rugby community. The Coral Coast 7s promises to be a remarkable event for players and fans alike, highlighting the spirit of competition and the passion for rugby in Fiji.