Osea Kolinisau, head coach of the Fiji Airways Men’s 7s, returned to the field in a nostalgic exhibition match at the Fiji Bitter Marist 7s at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, sharing the pitch with some of the game’s most revered figures in Fijian sevens. The appearance reunited Kolinisau with icons Bill Satala, William Ryder and Waisale Serevi in a showcase that the coach described as “unforgettable” and “a blessing.”
Kolinisau, himself a celebrated sevens player before moving into coaching, said the chance to play alongside the men who helped build Fiji’s sevens reputation was deeply meaningful. “It was very special for me, you know coming to play with these legends like Bill Satala, William Ryder and Waisale Serevi,” he said after the match. “I just feel blessed to be part of this exhibition match.” He thanked organisers for staging the event and expressed hope it will become an annual fixture on the sevens calendar.
The exhibition took place during the Fiji Bitter Marist 7s, an established stop on Fiji’s domestic sevens circuit that brings together current players, alumni and local supporters at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium. For Kolinisau, who now leads the national side, the outing offered a rare opportunity to bridge generations—playing alongside the veterans who set the standard for flair, skill and innovation that Fiji sevens is known for.
Kolinisau’s involvement underscores a growing trend of blending past and present figures at marquee domestic tournaments to celebrate the sport’s heritage while promoting its future. By stepping onto the field himself, the Fiji Airways Men’s 7s coach provided fans a tangible link between the current national programme and the pioneers of the sevens era, a gesture that organisers and supporters welcomed.
The exhibition also served a wider purpose for the Marist 7s weekend, which continues to be a focal point for community engagement around rugby in Suva. Kolinisau’s call for the match to become an annual event reflects a desire among players and followers to maintain those connections, celebrate the game’s history and inspire younger talent coming through local competitions.
As the national side prepares for upcoming international commitments, Kolinisau’s public return to playing, even in an exhibition capacity, offers both a sentimental moment for fans and a reminder of the deep roots of sevens rugby in Fiji. His comments and participation mark the latest development in efforts to preserve and showcase the legacy of the sport at domestic tournaments across the country.
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