The upcoming 31st R.C. Manubhai Nataleira Sevens tournament aims to significantly enhance grassroots rugby in the nation. During the event’s official launch at the R.C. Manubhai Suva branch store, tournament director Solo Finau emphasized the need for strategic changes to improve both player performance and coaching methods.
Finau, a former senior administrator with the Fiji Rugby Union, expressed that introducing fresh ideas is essential to evolving the dynamic of sevens rugby, moving away from traditional approaches. One of the notable innovations he has introduced is the use of bonus points, marking this tournament as the first of its kind to incorporate such a system.
The first bonus point incentivizes players to score tries directly under the goalposts, with the added challenge of converting those tries for additional points. The second bonus point will reward teams that manage to score a converted try, a converted penalty, and a drop goal within the span of seven minutes. Finau highlighted the importance of expanding the ways teams can score, referencing historical World Cup victories achieved through drop goals, as exemplified by teams from South Africa, England, and Australia.
The overarching goal, according to Finau, is to cultivate a new mindset among players and coaches that encourages them to innovate their scoring strategies. He envisions that if all teams aim to score under the posts, it will prompt defenses to raise their game, thereby increasing competition levels.
Finau’s vision looks to inspire a new culture among players that could contribute positively to the national sevens team in the long run. Additionally, R.C. Manubhai regional manager Atish Singh noted the company’s pride in being associated with the Nataleira Sevens, highlighting the tournament’s growth over the years and expressing optimism for even greater success in the future.
Scheduled to take place at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori from December 19 to 21, this year’s tournament promises to be an exciting opportunity for local talent to showcase their skills and for the sport to grow in popularity.
Overall, this initiative not only elevates the standard of rugby but also encourages a vibrant competitive spirit among teams. The tournament serves as a promising platform that may foster innovation and excellence in the sport, providing a hopeful future for rugby in the country.
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