Following Jerry Tuwai’s decision to step back from playing and ambassadorial roles due to a personal loss, 21-year-old Samisoni Sadole has been named to the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s squad for the upcoming 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s tournament. Sadole, an emerging talent in Fijian rugby sevens, primarily plays as a rover for the local Devo Babas team.
This opportunity comes as Sadole steps in to fill the void left by the experienced Tuwai, who has been a significant figure in the sport. Sadole has already made an impression in local rugby sevens competitions, including the Fiji Bitter Wairiki Sevens and the Nawaka 7s, showcasing his potential as a future star in the sport.
A product of the Ba Kaji Rugby development programme, Sadole has actively played for notable teams like Devo Babas, JB Sorokoba, and the Ba Rugby Union representative squads. His experience also includes being named as a reserve for the Ba under-20 team in the Skipper Cup competition, demonstrating his versatility and readiness across different formats of the game.
Tournament organizers have expressed their full support for Tuwai’s decision to focus on his wellbeing during this challenging period, recognizing him not only as an ambassador for the event but also as part of the rugby family. They have urged respect for his privacy and extended their deepest condolences. Tuwai himself has expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and sends his best wishes to all participants, emphasizing that he is cheering for the teams from afar.
Samisoni Sadole’s selection marks a significant milestone in his burgeoning rugby career as he prepares to take on the challenge of representing the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s team at this esteemed event. With this opportunity, Sadole has the chance to make a lasting impact in the world of rugby sevens and inspire the next generation of players in Fiji.
Leave a comment