Fiji Airways’ assistant coach for the Fiji 7s team, Vilame Satala, is set to lead the men’s squad in the upcoming Oceania Sevens tournament in Honiara, Solomon Islands, this weekend. With four weeks of training under their belts, the team is eager to take on the challenge.
Satala has introduced five new players to the squad, including Lasaro Bogisa, Iosefo Namoce, and Alipate Nabiu, marking an exciting opportunity for these debutants. Namoce has shown impressive skills while playing at centre for Suva in this year’s Skipper Cup competition.
The squad comprises a blend of experienced athletes who have previously competed in prestigious events like the HSBC series and the Pacific Games. Satala emphasized the importance of these seasoned players, such as Kavekini Kabu, Timoci Nakausa, and Manueli Maisamoa, in guiding the team during high-stakes matches.
This year’s tournament, scheduled for December 7-8, will be a historic event as it marks the first time the Hapi Isles will host the Oceania tournament. It will feature a total of 15 men’s teams and nine women’s teams, culminating in 58 matches across two days of exhilarating rugby action. Notably, it will see the debut participation of Niue and Kiribati in the women’s category, highlighting the tournament as a platform for emerging talent alongside established rugby nations.
This event not only promises to be a display of competitive rugby but also serves as an encouraging sign of growth and inclusivity in the sport. The blend of seasoned players and fresh talent can bode well for Fiji’s rugby future, fostering an environment for nurturing promising athletes in the sport.
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