Fiji Airways men’s head coach Osea Kolinisau has expressed his intent to prioritize family time this year. At 39 years old, Kolinisau, a native of Namuka-i-Lau, has spent considerable time away from his family, who reside in the U.S. since he took on the coaching role in March of the previous year. His wife, Mere Tavu Fa, and their children visit him regularly in Fiji, but Kolinisau is eager to create more opportunities to spend time with them.

Kolinisau shared his aspirations for the year, stating, “I just want more family time, win the HSBC SVNS series, and just to be a better person than I was last year.” As a 2016 Olympic gold medalist, he emphasizes personal growth, recognizing areas where he can improve both in his personal life and coaching practices.

In a short period, he has led the national men’s rugby team to notable achievements, including winning a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games just four months into his coaching tenure. More recently, Kolinisau guided the team to its first Cup title win in Dubai last month, ending a 25-tournament title drought.

Looking forward, Kolinisau aims to maintain his team’s excellent performance as they currently lead the HSBC SVNS series with 36 points, ahead of Spain and France. He also expressed his intention to enhance his coaching skills by learning from fellow coaches.

Next week, Kolinisau will serve as an ambassador at the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament in Sigatoka, where he will announce a national squad for the three-day event. This will be followed by the selection of the team for the Perth 7s tournament scheduled from January 24-26.

Kolinisau’s commitment to balancing both his professional and personal lives serves as an inspiring example of how one can strive for success in sports while cherishing family connections. His dual focus not only highlights his resolve to excel in rugby but also emphasizes the values of family and personal fulfillment. Ultimately, Kolinisau’s journey reflects the profound impact of dedication on both the field and at home, offering a hopeful narrative for athletes and coaches striving for a well-rounded life.

In summary, this year looks promising for Kolinisau as he balances his coaching responsibilities with the importance of family, embodying the ideal of personal growth intertwined with professional achievement.