The Fiji Airways Fijian Sevens team is undergoing intensive preparations for the upcoming Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens, taking place from March 28-30 at the newly built Kai Tak Stadium. Head coach Osea Kolinisau is determined to equip his squad to reclaim the prestigious title, which they last won in 2019.
The team has recently regrouped, with players vying for spots in the final lineup. Kolinisau has expressed satisfaction with the competitive spirit seen within the camp, noting the enthusiasm of both veteran athletes and newcomers. “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,” Kolinisau stated.
As part of their preparation, the national squad will not participate in the Marist Sevens, allowing players the opportunity to compete for their respective clubs while focusing their training efforts solely on the Hong Kong tournament. Kolinisau highlighted the importance of strong communication on and off the field, encouraging new players to express themselves and actively engage with more experienced teammates.
Crew member Isikeli Basiyalo’s aerial skills and overall integration into the group have also been praised. Kolinisau has been vocal about the need for every player, regardless of experience, to communicate effectively—a critical factor in high-pressure situations.
Reflecting on a frustrating semi-final loss to South Africa in the Vancouver 7s, Kolinisau shared that while the team was disappointed, they have learned valuable lessons about maintaining focus throughout matches. “The boys recognized the importance of not assuming victory before the final whistle,” he noted, emphasizing the significance of decisiveness during crucial moments.
Despite facing unfamiliar ground in the new Hong Kong stadium, Kolinisau remains optimistic about maintaining Fiji’s historic dominance in the tournament. The team’s legacy includes 19 titles, making their upcoming campaign a poignant opportunity to reconnect with their storied past.
Building excitement among fans, Fiji will begin their tournament with a match against the USA, followed by contests against Ireland and Argentina. A unified and determined squad, led by the experiences of recent competitions, is focused on not just reclaiming the title but inspiring national pride and demonstrating their exceptional skills on the world stage.
As the competition approaches, hopes are high that the Fiji Sevens team can turn past setbacks into stepping stones for future success, reaffirming the resilient spirit of Fijian rugby. Their dedication to both improvement and teamwork underscores a bright outlook as they prepare for this significant event.
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