The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team is heading into the Hong Kong Sevens this weekend fueled by a strong sense of motivation and unity, rooted in their deep faith and passion for rugby. Head coach Richard Walker has been inspired by the team’s spirit, especially their heartfelt prayers and songs, which have fortified his belief in their capabilities.
Walker remarked on the profound impact of the team’s faith, stating, “When I enter this environment and see what their faith means to them, it’s powerful. The way they pray, the way they sing—it’s like the most beautiful voices in the world. I want them to play like they’re singing their songs.”
As the tournament approaches, Walker has identified key improvement areas, particularly in defensive connections and securing rucks. He acknowledged that at times, the team tends to rush, which can leave them vulnerable to opponents’ strategies. To counteract this, he emphasizes a more structured attack from the outset, allowing them to utilize their natural Fijian flair and create scoring opportunities.
Building on their recent success, where they reached the finals at the Vancouver Sevens, Walker aims not only to sustain but also enhance the team’s performance. He plans to draw on the experience of senior players, particularly those who participated in the Tokyo Olympics, to help the team relive the successful tactics from that event.
This three-day tournament, starting this Friday, represents a chance for the Fijiana 7s team to honor their nation through their faith, determination, and spirited play. Their commitment to unity and spiritual strength projects a positive outlook as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Fans are eagerly looking forward to seeing how this rich spiritual connection influences their performance on the field, hoping to witness yet another significant milestone in Fijian rugby history as the Fijiana 7s take on their competitors in Hong Kong.
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