Timoci Volavola, the interim head coach of the Fijiana 7s rugby team, has introduced a fresh roster of players for the upcoming season as part of his efforts to revitalize the team. The squad includes only three experienced players, including Ana Maria Naimasi, as Volavola aims to encourage support for women’s sevens rugby following a challenging performance at the Paris Olympic Games, where the team finished in 12th place.
Many members of the previous season’s team have departed, prompting Volavola to assemble a promising new group. He plans to finalize his 12-member squad after confirming medical clearances, and he is optimistic about the players’ progress demonstrated during training.
“This start is quite tough considering last year’s results, but I’m committed to this challenge,” Volavola stated. “My goal is to restore support for the girls’ team. The new players have stepped up and shown eagerness to learn and adapt.”
A positive shift in team culture is essential to Volavola, who emphasized the importance of discipline and attitude both on and off the field. He is determined to create a constructive environment and has set clear expectations for all team members.
“My priority is to maintain a spot in the top eight core teams,” he added. “This upcoming tournament will be a critical experience for many of these girls, and I will encourage them to push for a lasting place in the core team.”
The Fijiana team has been placed in Pool A alongside challenging competitors such as Australia, Ireland, and China. With their recent travel, Volavola highlighted the need for strong recovery routines before facing these formidable opponents, noting their impressive performances during the Olympics.
“We recognize that all teams will be more competitive this season, but we are focused on working hard to achieve our goals,” he affirmed.
Emosi Mulevoro, a former sevens player, will be assisting Volavola in this new chapter for the Fijiana 7s.
This restructuring of the Fijiana 7s presents an opportunity for the team to grow and improve. With fresh talent and a renewed focus on discipline, the squad can look forward to a season filled with potential and a chance to rebuild its reputation in women’s sevens rugby. The support from the community and fans could play a crucial role in propelling the team forward.
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