The national 7s rugby team is in search of a winning formula to secure a third Olympic Games gold medal. This intention was revealed by Gareth Baber, the consultant national program manager for 7s rugby, as the team left for the Paris Olympic Games on Monday.
Baber responded to inquiries about the team’s track record in previous competitions, including over 20 HSBC SVNS tournaments where they have not achieved a cup title. Questions were raised on whether critics consider the team a probable contender for the Olympic gold, given their performance.
Baber expressed that they probably would doubt the team’s potential, considering the team hasn’t been performing to the standard Fiji has established globally. However, he reiterated the team’s goal to reclaim their winning momentum, recognizing Fiji’s capability to triumph in any tournament if their performance levels are met.
Regarding the inclusion of an overseas-based player and two Fijian Drua representatives into the team, Baber mentioned that they are aiming to find the right blend of talent. He stated that their preparations for the Olympics, from the perspective of head coach Osea Kolinisau and the coaching team, isn’t solely about talent. It also involves understanding tournament pressures, player conditioning, and uniting these elements to execute ideal performance across six matches in four days.