The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is set to announce the new head coaches for the Fijiana 7s and 15s teams this week, as confirmed by CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu. Nayacalevu disclosed that offers have been extended to potential candidates, and responses are currently pending.

Among the applicants is the legendary rugby sevens figure, Waisale Serevi, who is considered a frontrunner for the Fijiana 7s head coaching position. Serevi has notable coaching experience, including a recent role with the Indian Women’s 7s team. Additionally, former rugby player Sireli Bobo is in contention for a coaching spot, though Nayacalevu chose not to name all of the interested applicants.

Serevi is expected to support Bobo and the Fiji Sports Council coaching team as they prepare the Under-20 7s squad for upcoming competitions. His recent appointment as the International Brand Ambassador for Aqua Pacific Natural Artesian Water underscores his ongoing commitment to the sport and its community.

The Fijiana 15s head coach position became available following the departure of Mosese Rauluni in October 2023. Rauluni notably guided the team to success, securing victory in the Oceania Championship and qualifying for the next Rugby World Cup. This leaves considerable expectations for his successor, as it’s described that they will have big shoes to fill.

The head coaching role for the Fijiana 7s team has remained vacant since the expiration of Saiasi Fuli’s contract last December. Fuli had a significant impact during his five-year tenure, including leading the team to a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

With the anticipated appointments of new coaches, the FRU is expressing a commitment to improving performance and nurturing talent within women’s rugby in Fiji. The incoming leadership offers an exciting opportunity for growth and a positive future as the teams seek to continue building on their past successes and enhance their competitive strategies on the international stage.

Overall, the upcoming announcements are fuelling optimism within the Fijian rugby community, reflecting a hopeful outlook for the potential that lies ahead for both the Fijiana 7s and 15s teams.