Interim head coach Timoci Volavola has selected a fresh lineup of athletes to represent the Fijiana 7s this season, aiming to rejuvenate support for the women’s sevens rugby. The team, which only includes three established players such as Ana Maria Naimasi, is looking to bounce back after a challenging performance that led to a 12th place finish at the Paris Olympic Games in August.
Volavola, who previously served as the assistant national coach, noted that many players from last season have moved on. He anticipates finalizing his 12-member squad after the medical evaluations are confirmed this Thursday. There is optimism surrounding the new recruits, with Volavola recognizing their significant improvement since they first joined the camp.
“It is a very hard start seeing our results from last year, very challenging but I am taking the challenge,” Volavola expressed. His mission is to reignite enthusiasm for the women’s team.
He emphasized the new players’ readiness to learn and their attentiveness to training, indicating a fresh spirit within the squad. Despite the struggles faced by the team in the past, he is determined to create a positive shift in team culture, which involves instilling discipline and the right attitude both on and off the field.
Volavola’s goal is to secure a position in the top eight, stating, “This will be the first major tournament for most girls, and I’m going to drive them to work hard to stay on the core team.” The Fijiana will compete in Pool A against strong teams such as Australia, Ireland, and China, with Volavola acknowledging the need for the squad to recover from travel fatigue ahead of their matches.
With a fresh perspective and dedicated new talent, the Fijiana 7s aims for improvement this season. The commitment from both the coach and the new players offers hope for a stronger performance and a bright future for women’s rugby in Fiji.
This new chapter could signify a period of growth and resilience for the team, promising exciting developments as they embark on the upcoming season’s challenges.
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