The head coach of the Fiji Airways Fijiana sevens development team, Taione Ratu, is optimistic about the upcoming 2024 Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship. His team, primarily made up of young and inexperienced players who usually compete in local tournaments, sees this event as an excellent opportunity for growth and exposure to higher levels of competition.
Since entering camp last Sunday, the team has been focused on enhancing their cohesion and refining both their offensive and defensive strategies. Ratu expresses satisfaction with the progress made, noting that the players are beginning to gel both on and off the field. The team’s age range is between 18 to 25 years, but Ratu highlights the importance of the knowledge and guidance provided by the more experienced players in developing the squad.
With the championship expected to be a tough challenge, particularly against the host team, the Solomon Islands, Ratu is confident in his team’s preparedness. He believes that their familiarity with the sport and their active engagement in the tournament will serve them well. The coach emphasizes that while the competition will be demanding, the girls are up to the task.
This tournament not only serves as a platform for the team to demonstrate their skills but also as a chance for the young players to gain vital experience, setting a foundation for future successes in the sport. Coach Ratu’s optimism and strategic focus could very well pave the way for a promising performance from the Fijiana team.
In summary, Ratu’s leadership coupled with the team’s youthful enthusiasm points to a bright future for Fiji’s women’s rugby, as they prepare to take on the challenges ahead with determination and confidence.
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