The 49th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s Tournament is currently underway at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, showcasing a thrilling display of athleticism and sport. Among the attendees is the Marist St Joseph 7s team from Samoa, which has come with the primary goal of gaining valuable exposure in a competitive environment.
Head Coach Semi Seruvakula expressed admiration for the high level of competition in Fiji, highlighting its potential for player development. “We believed it would be great to expose our players to the level of competition here; Fiji is the best place in the world to develop your players, especially in the game of sevens,” he noted. Feedback from his players reflects that this experience has been an eye-opener, characterized by excitement and delight in how the tournament is organized.
In their initial matches, Marist St Joseph achieved a narrow victory over Eco Retreat Namosi Highlanders with a score of 10-5 but faced a significant challenge against Dominion Brothers, losing 24-0. They are now focused on advancing through the preliminary matches to reach the elimination round.
This tournament is notable not only for its competitive matches but also for the camaraderie it fosters among teams. Participation from over 95 teams, including the presence of prominent Samoan clubs like Faleata Sports Domain, underscores the event’s role in uniting rugby talent across the Pacific region. Notably, the inclusion of former Manu Samoa 7s players in teams like Faleata adds to the tournament’s competitive spirit.
As the competition progresses, all eyes are on the actions on the field, with teams hoping to demonstrate their skills, learn from one another, and foster lasting connections within the rugby community. The spirit of unity in rugby shines brightly at this event, promising an enriching experience for players, fans, and future generations.
The Marist 7s not only highlights the dedication of the participating athletes but also serves to inspire young talents and rejuvenate the rugby culture across these Pacific nations. The atmosphere remains filled with excitement, showcasing a hopeful outlook for the development of the sport in the region.
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