The Fiji Airways Fijian Sevens team is intensively preparing for the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, scheduled to take place from March 28-30 at the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Stadium. Head coach Osea Kolinisau is focused on readying his squad to reclaim the title they last won in 2019.
Recently, the team has regrouped, with players competing for spots in the final roster. Kolinisau is pleased with the intensity and enthusiasm demonstrated by both experienced players and fresh faces. “It’s great to see everyone back and fighting for a spot. The younger players are stepping up and showing they have the potential to excel,” he remarked.
In preparation for the tournament, the national squad has opted out of the Marist Sevens, allowing players the chance to compete for their clubs while concentrating solely on the upcoming tournament. The coach has emphasized the importance of effective communication among teammates, urging new players to proactively engage and learn from their more experienced counterparts.
Kolinisau has also highlighted the promising aerial skills of crew member Isikeli Basiyalo and the importance of every player contributing to communication on the field—a vital element during high-pressure situations.
After a frustrating semi-final defeat to South Africa at the Vancouver Sevens, Kolinisau expressed that the team has gleaned valuable lessons about maintaining focus throughout matches. “The boys recognized the importance of not assuming victory before the final whistle,” he stated, underscoring the necessity of decisiveness in critical moments.
Despite the challenges of adapting to the new stadium environment, Kolinisau remains optimistic about retaining Fiji’s storied dominance in the tournament, boasting an impressive 19 titles. The team’s upcoming campaign presents a poignant opportunity to reconnect with their rich rugby history.
Generating excitement among supporters, Fiji will kick off their tournament against the USA, followed by matches against Ireland and Argentina. A cohesive and determined squad, drawing on their recent competition experiences, aims not only to reclaim the title but also to inspire national pride and showcase their extraordinary talents on the global stage.
As the event draws near, there is a palpable sense of hope that the Fiji Sevens team can convert past disappointments into stepping stones for future victories, embodying the innate resilience of Fijian rugby. Their commitment to teamwork and improvement heralds a promising outlook as they gear up for this significant competition.
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