The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s women’s rugby team demonstrated notable improvement at the recent McDonald’s Fiji’s Coral Coast Sevens tournament, showcasing their growth under interim coach Jim Volavola. Competing as Mount Masada, the team secured a decisive 24-7 victory against the New Zealand Development side in the women’s final.

Adi Mereani Rogosau, a utility back on the team, shared her insights into the training regimen that has contributed to their development. “During the festive season, the coach did not allow us to go home and spend time with our loved ones. We had to sacrifice that, stayed in camp and kept on training while people were enjoying,” she explained. This commitment is paving the way for their upcoming attempts to enhance their ranking in the HSBC World Sevens Series, aiming to replicate their recent success in Perth.

Despite a challenging past season that included a disappointing performance in the 2024 Olympic Games, the Fijiana 7s team has been working diligently to climb the ranks, currently sitting at 11th place in the World Series standings following tournaments in Dubai and Cape Town. Rogosau emphasized the team’s unity and readiness, stating, “This is a different team. We have been camping together for more than six weeks after Dubai and Cape Town. Hopefully, we will go one step up in Perth. We are looking forward to it.”

The upcoming matches are crucial as the Fijiana prepares to face formidable opponents, including the USA, Canada, and Great Britain. Their journey ahead in the HSBC World Sevens Series represents a significant opportunity for growth.

In comparison, the previous reports highlighted the challenges the team faced earlier in the season, struggling with defeats at the HSBC Dubai Sevens. The contrast between those earlier setbacks and their recent triumphs at the Coral Coast Sevens inspires hope for a rejuvenation in performance.

The Fijiana 7s team’s dedicated effort and the interim coach’s strategic focus signify a promising direction. With consistent support and a strong work ethic, there is optimism for a successful season ahead, not merely for the Fijiana 7s but for the future of women’s rugby in Fiji.

In summary, the Fijiana 7s are experiencing a renewed spirit and enthusiasm, underscoring the resilience of the team as they strive to enhance their profile in international rugby. The synergy of a focused training regimen and the hopes of teammates and fans alike are pivotal for their upcoming competitions.