Fiji men’s sevens forward Kavekini Tanivanuakula remains a strong candidate for the upcoming Perth 7s, despite facing drink driving charges. Head coach Osea Kolinisau confirmed Tanivanuakula’s participation during a recent training session, where he joined his teammates to prepare for the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament scheduled for next week.

Tanivanuakula made his debut for the national team at the Dubai 7s last month and was also part of the squad for the Cape Town leg. He was arrested on December 14 at the Nadi Temple checkpoint and is set to appear in court on February 17, 2025.

Kolinisau addressed the situation, explaining the importance of decision-making for newcomers like Tanivanuakula. He noted that representing Fiji comes with significant responsibilities and emphasized the need for players to act as role models. Kolinisau has observed positive changes in Tanivanuakula’s behavior since the incident, showcasing his willingness to learn from past mistakes.

The coach also highlighted the team’s commitment to portraying kindness and respect, underscoring their aim to set a positive example for younger fans. The final squad for the Australia trip will be named after the Coral Coast 7s tournament, which runs from January 24-26.

This scenario presents an opportunity for Tanivanuakula to grow both as an athlete and a role model, illustrating how challenges can lead to personal development. With support from his coaches and teammates, there is hope that he will emerge from this experience stronger and more responsible, inspiring others to learn from their mistakes as well.