Fiji Airways Fiji 7s assistant coach Vilame Satala will lead the men’s team at the upcoming Oceania Sevens tournament in Honiara, Solomon Islands, this weekend. The team has been preparing for the event over the past four weeks and is eager to compete.
Satala has included five players who will be making their debut, among them Lasaro Bogisa, Iosefo Namoce, and Alipate Nabiu. Namoce has been showcasing his skills as a center for Suva in this year’s Skipper Cup competition.
“This team combines experienced players who have participated in the HSBC series and the Pacific Games, along with fresh talent,” noted Satala, who previously had a successful career as a centre for the Flying Fijians. He emphasized the importance of experienced players stepping up in a high-stakes tournament like Oceania.
Among the seasoned players are Kavekini Kabu, Timoci Na-kausa, and Manueli Maisamoa, who are expected to provide leadership and guidance throughout the competition.
This year’s Oceania tournament marks a historic first for the Hapi Isles as they host the event on December 7-8, featuring a total of 15 men’s and nine women’s teams with 58 matches scheduled over the two days. The tournament not only highlights established rugby powerhouses but also introduces new talent, including Niue and Kiribati in the women’s division.
As the tournament approaches, the anticipation is building, and Fiji’s commitment to nurturing both experience and emerging talent is promising for the future of rugby in the region. Fans can look forward to an exciting display of athleticism and sportsmanship this weekend.
Leave a comment