The Fiji Airways men’s 7s rugby team is experiencing a significant upswing as they transition from a disappointing silver medal at the Olympic Games to clinching victory at the Dubai 7s and finishing third in Cape Town during the 2024-2025 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. This positive momentum is attributed to head coach Osea Kolinisau, who took charge on March 8, 2024. Drawing from his experience as the captain of the gold medal-winning Fiji team in 2016, Kolinisau focused on instilling strict fitness standards and defensive techniques to reignite the celebrated Fijian rugby flair.
In just four months, the team’s performance began to show improvement, with the return of their renowned style of play noted during the Olympic competition. After regrouping, the Fijian squad achieved a historic win at the Dubai tournament, breaking a 22-tournament winless streak. Kolinisau describes the team’s journey as progressive, emphasizing their growing understanding of both defensive and offensive strategies.
Kolinisau expressed immense pride in witnessing the joy of his players after securing the trophy in Dubai, reflecting on the pressure they faced after so many tournaments without a win. He conveyed gratitude for the support the team received and highlighted the boost in confidence that the victory provided.
Looking ahead, the Fijian team is gearing up for upcoming challenges in Perth this January and Vancouver in February, aiming to build on their recent successes.
This turnaround reflects the resilience of the team and the strategic leadership of Kolinisau. It’s a testament to how dedication, hard work, and teamwork can revitalize a squad and restore its competitive edge. With continued focus and determination, hopes are high for further accomplishments in the upcoming tournaments.
Summary: The Fiji Airways men’s 7s rugby team, under coach Osea Kolinisau, has made a remarkable comeback from past setbacks, achieving a title at the Dubai 7s and a third-place finish in Cape Town. With a focus on fitness and strategy, they are set to continue their positive trajectory in upcoming competitions.
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