Two international rugby sevens stars have expressed their support for USA 7s head coach Mike Friday’s belief that Fiji should be given the opportunity to host a leg of the HSBC World Sevens Series. South Africa’s Rosko Specman and former Ireland rugby sevens captain Harry McNulty both advocated for this idea during the 2025 McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament held at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.

Specman highlighted the vibrant atmosphere and passionate crowds during the Coral Coast Sevens, stating that despite a few logistical shortcomings in Fiji, the fervent support for rugby makes it an ideal candidate for hosting a World Series leg. He recalled the remarkable turnout at the Coral Coast Sevens, where fans attended steadily from Thursday to Saturday, demonstrating the locals’ love for the sport.

McNulty echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the depth of rugby knowledge and respect in Fiji, paralleling it with other rugby-strong nations like Ireland and Argentina. He remarked on how crucial it would be for the game to embrace venues that deeply appreciate rugby, noting that the enthusiasm seen in Fiji should warrant serious consideration for a World Series event.

Both players reflected on their experiences at the Coral Coast Sevens, remarking on the incredible turnout from all ages, which not only displays Fiji’s dedication to the sport but also showcases the country’s rugby culture. Specman was particularly touched by the local fans’ knowledge of his career, saying it was a unique experience to encounter such familiarity and appreciation as a player.

The Coral Coast Sevens tournament itself serves as an important foundation for Fiji’s aspirations to host larger international events. Previous articles have emphasized the growth of this tournament as a competitive international fixture that not only fosters local talent but also draws attention to the depth and richness of Fijian rugby. As fans eagerly attend, the potential for Fiji to host a leg of the prestigious HSBC World Sevens Series continues to gain momentum, fostering hope for the future of rugby in the region.

In summary, the enthusiastic support from players like Specman and McNulty, coupled with the ongoing success of events like the Coral Coast Sevens, reinforces Fiji’s rightful place as a cornerstone of rugby culture and presents a promising vision for its tournament-hosting future.