Fiji’s Deaf Rugby teams are gearing up for a significant moment in their history as they head to the 2025 Pacific Rim Deaf Rugby Sevens tournament in Australia. Under the guidance of head coach Tomasi Rokoqiqi, who has been at the helm since 2019, both teams are expected to be strong contenders. Rokoqiqi noted that even Australian coaches are inquiring about Fiji’s participation, indicating the team’s growing reputation.
The national Deaf Rugby teams have an impressive track record, having won the inaugural Oceania Deaf Rugby Sevens title in 2019, triumphing over Japan in Suva in 2023, and beating New Zealand in a friendly series this year. In the previous year’s 2024 Australian Deaf Games held in Newcastle, both the men’s and women’s teams secured gold medals, with Rokoqiqi stepping in to coach the women’s side due to a lack of support at that time. He expressed gratitude towards the Fijian Government, the Fiji Rugby Union, and the Fiji National Sports Commission for their increasing recognition and support.
The tournament in Australia will see the women’s team play matches against Australia and Barbarians on June 28 and June 29, while the men’s team will face Samoa, Australia, and Japan. Rokoqiqi shared that the ultimate goal for both teams is to win the tournament and shift focus toward the 2026 Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup scheduled in Japan.
In a positive light, this event highlights the progress made in inclusive sports within Fiji, showcasing the athletes’ skills while serving as a platform for empowerment and inspiration. The growing support for these teams speaks volumes about the resilience and determination of the players who are committed not just to victory but also to breaking barriers and fostering inclusive participation in sports.
This tournament embodies a beacon of hope for athletes with disabilities, reiterating that while they may face challenges, support and determination can lead to significant achievements. The excitement surrounding their journey fosters optimism for the future of Deaf Rugby in Fiji.
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