Fiji Men’s National 7s head coach Osea Kolinisau is set to closely observe the Fiji Under-18 Schoolboys program, recognizing it as a crucial avenue for developing young rugby talent in the nation.
The selection of the U-18 Fiji Schoolboys team to face an Australian touring side offers Kolinisau an excellent opportunity to spot and nurture potential future stars. He views the involvement of the Fijian Drua franchise in scouting high school players for their academy as a significant advancement in cultivating elite talent.
Kolinisau’s strategy involves incorporating promising young athletes from the schoolboy program into his national 7s squad, allowing them to gain valuable experience and exposure at the highest level of rugby.
“I see players in high school. I’ll get them in and mix them up with boys that are in camp and give them the experience,” Kolinisau explained. “If they are up to the task, you know they’re 18 years old, and if they show they can hack it on the top flight of 7s, I’ll throw them in. That’s something I’m excited about.”
The Fiji Schoolboys team is scheduled to play two matches against the visiting Australian team on September 27 and October 1.