The upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament promises to be a notable event as fans may witness the last performance of the iconic sevens rugby duo, Jerry Tuwai and Rosko Specman, together on the field. Both athletes have made significant contributions to the sport, with Tuwai being a two-time Olympic gold medalist and former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year, and Specman known for his speed, having been a crucial member of the South African team that won the World Series in 2017.

Tuwai, revered for embodying the spirit of Fiji rugby, has also secured a silver medal at the Paris Summer Olympics in 2024, while Specman, recognized as “Specmagic,” transitioned smoothly from the sevens format to 15s rugby, competing in the Pro 14 league. This tournament will mark a historic occasion as it will be the first time Tuwai and Specman play together as teammates, after previously competing against each other in various HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series events.

The Mike Friday Select 7s squad, coached by Mike Friday, features other notable players including former Irish 7s captain Harry McNulty and American player Matai Leuta, alongside a host of talented Fijian athletes. The excitement around the tournament is palpable, as the event will host a total of 44 teams, including 16 men’s teams, 16 youth teams, and 12 women’s teams.

This celebration of rugby not only highlights elite competition but also serves to inspire a new generation of athletes in Fiji and beyond, promoting a deeper love for the sport. As fans converge at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka from January 16 to 18, 2025, the anticipation for unforgettable matches and sportsmanship is high, showcasing Fiji’s rich rugby heritage and vibrant rugby culture.

In summary, the Coral Coast 7s provides an extraordinary opportunity for the world of rugby to come together, reinforcing the unity and passion for the game in the community.