Fiji Under-20 rugby coach Senirusi Seruvakula is focused on shaping the future of the sport as he prepares his squad for the Oceania Rugby U20s Challenge and Super Rugby U20 competitions. With a long-term vision in mind, Seruvakula is working with 45 players, many of whom have progressed through the reputable Deans competition, emphasizing the importance of player development.

Drawing on the experience of players who participated in last year’s World Rugby U20 Championship, Seruvakula aims to foster talent that can transition to the senior Flying Fijians team by the age of 25. “It’s the development that we need here in Fiji,” he remarked, highlighting the need for early exposure to competitive rugby. This progressive approach seeks to shift the narrative that Fijian players typically peak later in their careers, often breaking into the national team in their late twenties.

Seruvakula has devised a structured pathway for his players, which includes integration into the Fiji Drua academy and the Fiji Rugby Union’s High-Performance Unit, as well as opportunities to play with the Fiji Warriors. His goal is to ensure that a core group of players can grow together, ultimately competing in the next U20 World Cup in 2026.

Currently, the team is training in Suva, Nadi, and Sigatoka, with overseas players keeping connected by sending training videos. A crucial fitness assessment is also scheduled for next week that will lead to finalizing a 30-member roster by the end of January.

The upcoming Oceania tournament promises to be a competitive affair, with teams from Tonga, Samoa, and Moana Pasifika set to challenge the squad. Following this tournament, Fiji will move on to participate in the Super Rugby U20 competition, providing valuable international exposure.

Seruvakula’s commitment to nurturing a new generation of rugby talent offers a hopeful outlook for Fijian rugby, indicating a growing investment in youth development. This proactive approach not only seeks to improve performance levels but also aims to solidify Fiji’s standing in global rugby competitions. With these groundwork laid, the future looks bright for young Fijian rugby players as they gear up for opportunities to shine on both domestic and international stages.