The upcoming 31st R.C. Manubhai Nataleira Sevens tournament is poised to make a significant impact on grassroots rugby in the country, according to tournament director Solo Finau. During the official launch at the R.C. Manubhai Suva branch store, Finau emphasized the need for strategic changes in how the game is played.
“We need to strategize to improve player performance,” Finau, a former senior administrator at the Fiji Rugby Union, stated. He expressed the importance of introducing innovative tournament concepts that would benefit players and coaches alike.
One of the most exciting developments in this tournament is the introduction of a bonus points system, a first for sevens rugby. Finau explained, “The first bonus point requires that a player scores under the posts in the try zone, with the score needing to be converted to earn bonus points.” The second bonus point will be awarded to teams that manage to achieve a converted try, a converted penalty, and a drop goal within seven minutes of play.
This new format aims to shift players’ and coaches’ mindsets towards alternative scoring methods, with historical examples from World Cups illustrating the importance of drop goals. With these changes, Finau is hopeful that a new culture will emerge among players aspiring for the national sevens team.
His vision is that as teams strive to score under the posts for extra points, they will improve their defensive tactics, raising the overall competitive standard of each game.
Atish Singh, regional manager of R.C. Manubhai, expressed gratitude for the association with the Nataleira Sevens, sharing optimism for the tournament’s growth. “The tournament is growing every year, and we’re hoping to get bigger and better next year,” he remarked.
The tournament is scheduled to take place at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori from December 19 to 21, promising an exciting event for rugby enthusiasts.
This initiative not only showcases a progressive approach to rugby but also reflects a commitment to nurturing local talent in the sport. If successful, it could pave the way for new strategies and elevate the level of rugby competition in the region, potentially inspiring the next generation of rugby stars.
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