Iowane Teba has earned high praise from head coach Osea Kolinisau, who has named him as his player of the tournament following an impressive display at the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens. Teba’s solid performance helped secure a 29-14 victory for the Fiji men’s 7s team in the final against Mike Friday’s Select Sevens, further solidifying his spot in the Fiji Airways squad set to compete in Perth.

Kolinisau commended Teba for his consistency throughout the tournament, where he also received the prestigious Jonah Lomu medal for being the top try-scorer with six tries. This accolade not only emphasizes his individual talent but also showcases the collective strength of the Fiji men’s 7s team.

The Coral Coast Sevens tournament, taking place from January 16-18 at Lawaqa Park, is a critical stepping stone as Kolinisau prepares to finalize his selection for the HSBC Perth 7s tournament, scheduled for January 24-26. Although promising players like Teba are making headlines, Kolinisau has stated that no positions are secure, and all athletes must deliver their best to earn a place in the team.

In addition to Teba’s accomplishments, the tournament revealed some injury concerns, with Jeremaia Matana and Sevuloni Mocenacagi both facing uncertainty leading into the Perth competition. Kolinisau’s focus will also be on enhancing the team’s defensive strategies, communication, and decision-making, crucial for success in high-stakes environments.

This competitive setup, enriched by emerging talents and seasoned players alike, reflects a vibrant atmosphere within Fijian rugby. The Coral Coast Sevens offers an excellent opportunity for all players to demonstrate their skills and push each other towards securing coveted spots in national representation.

As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming tournaments, there is optimism about the squad’s potential. With a blend of established athletes and promising newcomers, the Fiji men’s rugby 7s team is poised for a strong showing on the international stage, fostering pride in their rich rugby heritage.