Former Wallaby Henry Speight has praised Fiji’s grassroots rugby system, highlighting its ability to consistently produce outstanding talent. After attending the recent McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s tournament, Speight noted the impressive depth of skill among local players, reaffirming Fiji’s reputation as a dominant force in the sevens rugby arena.
“The talent, man. I actually hate to be a sevens coach right now—whether it’s for international teams or even our national side. There’s just so much of it,” Speight remarked, reflecting on the multitude of players emerging through domestic competitions. He pointed out that the competitive landscape in Fiji has broadened, with numerous teams showcasing strong performances, challenging the notion that success is limited to a select few.
Speight acknowledged that the growing intensity of the competition poses a significant challenge even for established international sides, as local teams push them to their limits. This competitive environment offers young athletes invaluable opportunities to face diverse styles of rugby and to attract attention from selectors and overseas clubs.
However, the former Wallabies winger cautioned that talent alone is insufficient for reaching higher levels in the sport. He stressed the importance of discipline, consistency, and a strong work ethic. “Talent gets you to a certain level, but hard work takes you beyond that,” Speight emphasized.
He is optimistic about the future of Fijian rugby, believing that the next generation of players possesses the necessary tools to achieve greater success, provided they remain dedicated, focused, and committed to their development. Speight’s insights reflect a hopeful outlook on the continued growth of rugby in Fiji, as the nation cultivates its promising athletes.
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