Rugby Fever Strikes as Army Defends Title at Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s!

Defending champions Army are gearing up to defend their title at the Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s tournament, set to commence tomorrow. The tournament will take place across three venues in Nadi, adding to the excitement surrounding the largest rugby event on the local calendar.

Today, captains from the men’s, youth, and women’s teams gathered for a photo shoot as they prepare for the competition. In the 2024 edition, Army triumphed over Navy with a score of 20-5 in the finals, and they are eager to replicate that success this year, despite facing a challenging pool. Army, known as DXC Army Green, will compete in pool six alongside Golden Eagles, Boutolu Babas, and FSC Grassroots Fiji.

Team captain Inia Tawalo, a former Fiji 7s representative, acknowledged the formidable task ahead but expressed confidence in their preparation. “For us, it’s a huge task ahead of us. We’ve come prepared; we don’t count any team as a small team, we respect them, but we’ll try and play a good game,” Tawalo stated.

The Nawaka 7s promises an unprecedented level of excitement, with a record 104 teams participating, highlighting the growing interest in grassroots rugby within Fiji. Tournament Coordinator Jeff Tamata mentioned that 64 teams will compete in the men’s category, while remaining divisions will feature youth and women’s teams. This year’s event not only serves as a showcase for talent but also reinforces the integral role rugby plays in fostering community spirit and unity across the nation.

Lives coverage of the tournament will be aired on FBC Sports, ensuring that fans who cannot attend in person can still experience the thrill. With the tournament commencing tomorrow at 10 AM, anticipation builds for an action-packed weekend culminating in the finals on Saturday. The Nawaka 7s continues to be a beacon for rugby in Fiji, celebrating local talent while engaging communities in a shared love for the sport.

With this vibrant gathering, the tournament not only represents competition but also a celebration of Fijian culture and unity in sport.