Manusina 7s head coach Filoi Eneliko is facing significant challenges in assembling a competitive squad for the upcoming Challenger Series in Cape Town, South Africa. Eneliko expressed concerns about the limited player pool, stating that there are currently not enough players in the training squad, with only 11 available and key members sidelined by injuries. This has necessitated the search for overseas replacements to strengthen the team.
Despite these challenges, Eneliko remains hopeful and confident in the capabilities of her squad, which includes both local and overseas-based players. The Manusina team has been in training for five weeks, aiming for a place in the next series of the HSBC competitions, with the goal to qualify for the subsequent round in Poland after the initial two tournaments.
In preparation, the team has not had the opportunity to compete together since the Oceania Games in Honiara, Solomon Islands, underscoring the importance of scrimmages with the Manu Samoa 7s team. Eneliko highlighted that the lack of tournament experience poses a significant obstacle as the team works to develop cohesion and maintain fitness levels appropriate for competitive matches.
The squad has been adjusted due to unavailability from three players linked to family commitments and injuries, with three overseas replacements stepping in. Eneliko emphasized the importance of training together, even in non-contact situations, to build team dynamics and adapt to the game’s physical demands.
The Manusina team departed Samoa recently for a training camp in Auckland and is scheduled to travel to South Africa on February 22, where they will face tough competition, particularly from Kenya and Poland. Currently ranked 12th, the team’s journey ahead is marked by significant challenges and hopes for a revitalized performance.
This article reflects the resilience and determination of the Manusina 7s team as they navigate through player shortages and preparations for international competition. The focus on strengthening team dynamics and fitness should position them positively as they enter the Challenger Series, embodying the spirit of growth and teamwork in rugby.
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