Fijian rugby icon Waisale Serevi has been appointed as the head coach of the Fijian Drua 7s team for the upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament, which is set to take place from January 16 to 18 at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. This noteworthy appointment marks Serevi’s long-awaited return to coaching a Fijian team after a 16-year hiatus, a moment he has expressed immense gratitude for, calling it an “honor and privilege.”

Serevi will be supported by Sam Speight, the Strength and Conditioning Coach for Swire Shipping Fijian Drua. Drua Head Coach Glen Jackson voiced his excitement for the tournament, emphasizing its importance as a platform for players, primarily accustomed to 15s rugby, to showcase their skills against some of Fiji’s best 7s talents.

The Coral Coast 7s is known for attracting top teams from both local and international realms and has historically featured rugby legends like Serevi and the late Jonah Lomu, enhancing its prestige and appeal. With an impressive 55% of the Fijian population expected to tune in, the anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding the Drua’s participation have never been higher.

Serevi’s leadership is anticipated to inspire not only the current team but also the younger generation of rugby players in Fiji, fostering a strong rugby culture in the country. As the Drua prepares for this significant event, fans are hopeful for an impressive showing, marking what promises to be an exciting chapter in Fijian rugby history.

In summary, Serevi’s return and the upcoming Coral Coast 7s symbolize a bright future for Fijian rugby, blending tradition, mentorship, and a spirit of competition that defines the nation’s love for the sport. The community eagerly awaits the display of talent and camaraderie that makes the Fijian rugby scene unique, reinforcing a sense of pride and hope for continued success.