The Dominion Brothers are gearing up to defend their youth title at the 2025 McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament, following their momentous victory last year. They are facing new challenges due to a predominantly inexperienced squad as many of their key players are currently involved with the High-Performance Unit under-20 and Fiji Sports Council U20 teams, which are preparing for the Oceania Rugby U20 Challenge in New Zealand.
The absence of these key team members means that the Dominion Brothers will depend heavily on fresh talent from local high schools, including Nasinu and Queen Victoria School. With only two players remaining from last year’s championship-winning side, the current preparation phase is critical to ensure the team is ready for the competition.
Head coach Rokoula Manuapa emphasized the importance of building the young players’ confidence and helping them adapt to the fast pace of sevens rugby. The team’s triumph last year was a significant turning point, as they finally secured a title after years of hard work and determination, overcoming the national Fiji U20 team in an exhilarating match. Their success was attributed to a keen understanding of their weaknesses, strategic adaptations, and disciplined play.
The upcoming Coral Coast 7s will take place at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, from January 16-18, providing the Dominion Brothers with an opportunity to showcase their growth and resilience on the field.
This situation highlights the importance of mentoring and developing young athletes, showcasing the potential for growth and success in sports. As the Dominion Brothers embark on this journey, their commitment to fostering new talent presents a hopeful outlook for the future of rugby in their community.
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