The upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament, set to take place from January 16 to 18, 2025, at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, is generating buzz as it may potentially mark the last competitive appearance of rugby icons Jerry Tuwai and Rosko Specman in the sevens format. Both players will team up on the Mike Friday Select 7s team, a highly anticipated collaboration that fans have eagerly awaited after witnessing their rivalry for years.

Jerry Tuwai, celebrated for his outstanding skills and leadership, is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year. He recently added a silver medal from the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics to his accolades, illustrating his significant contributions to the sport. Tuwai is regarded as the embodiment of Fijian rugby, characterized by his humility and flair.

On the other hand, Rosko Specman, affectionately dubbed “Specmagic,” is renowned for his incredible speed and agility. He played a pivotal role in South Africa’s victory during the 2017/2018 HSBC World Series and has smoothly transitioned to 15-a-side rugby, currently competing with the Cheetahs in the Pro 14 league. Specman’s impressive achievements also include bronze medals from both the 2016 Rio and 2024 Paris Olympics.

The tournament will see Tuwai and Specman play together for the first time as teammates, adding a remarkable layer of excitement to the event. The Mike Friday Select 7s team also boasts other notable players such as former Irish 7s captain Harry McNulty and American standout Matai Leuta, along with promising Fijian talent like Lasaro Bogisa and Iowane Teba.

A total of 44 teams will participate in the Coral Coast 7s, including 16 men’s teams, 16 youth teams, and 12 women’s teams, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with thrilling rugby. The event will be open to the public, with free admission, encouraging fan participation from across the community and reinforcing the cultural importance of rugby in Fiji.

As anticipation grows, the Coral Coast 7s not only symbolizes a potential farewell to Tuwai and Specman but also serves as a celebration of the sport and a catalyst to inspire younger generations of athletes. This tournament stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of rugby in Fiji, promising to unite fans and nurture a deeper connection to the sport within the community.

In summary, the Coral Coast 7s aims to be a memorable occasion that merges the legacies of these legendary players with the enthusiasm of emerging talents, ensuring that the passion for rugby continues to thrive in Fiji for years to come.