New Zealand’s Sevens Head Coach, Tomasi Cama, has announced the inclusion of three new players in preparation for the upcoming 2024-25 HSBC Sevens Series. The new additions to the squad are Oli Mathis from Waikato, Sofai Maka from North Harbour, and Joey Taumateine, who is promoted from the New Zealand Men’s Sevens Development team.
Cama expressed his enthusiasm for integrating young talent into the squad, emphasizing the importance of their rapid development within the competitive environment. “As coaches, it excites us to bring young people in and help with their growth,” he stated. “They have to learn fast, but that is all part of the excitement.”
Dylan Collier has been appointed as the captain of the team, supported by seasoned players Joe Webber and Sione Molia, both bringing over 50 matches of experience in the black jersey. Cama highlighted the team’s commitment to their core values, stating, “We’ve talked a lot about connecting to our DNA. This team is about hard work, that will be the foundation that allows us to play a brand of rugby we all love; exciting, free-playing, unstructured. That’s what we want to go out there to do.”
This strategic decision to incorporate new and youthful players showcases New Zealand’s focus on rejuvenating its team while maintaining a strong foundation in experience. There is a promising outlook for the squad as they prepare to entertain fans with their dynamic style of play in the series ahead.
Overall, this move not only nurtures emerging talent but also allows for an exciting blend of youth and experience within the New Zealand Sevens team, setting a hopeful tone for their performance in the forthcoming season.
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