Waisale Serevi, a legendary figure in sevens rugby and a member of the World Rugby Hall of Fame, has been appointed as the head coach for the Fijian Drua 7s team during the upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament. This prestigious event is set to take place from January 16 to 18 at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Serevi, who has not coached a Fijian team for 16 years, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, referring to it as both an “honor and privilege.”

Serevi will be joined by Sam Speight, the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, as they prepare to lead the team into a highly competitive tournament. Glen Jackson, the head coach of Drua, also shared his excitement for the Coral Coast 7s, noting that it presents a valuable chance for players trained primarily in the 15s format to showcase their skills against some of the best sevens talent in Fiji.

The Coral Coast 7s is known for attracting top local and international teams, enhancing its reputation within the rugby community. Historically, the tournament has featured rugby icons, providing a platform for younger players to compete at a high level and inspiring future generations of rugby enthusiasts. Reports indicate that over half of the Fijian population is expected to tune in to watch the Drua’s matches, demonstrating the strong support for the team and the sport nationally.

Serevi’s leadership is anticipated to inspire both current players and young aspiring rugby talent in Fiji. As the Drua gears up for this significant challenge, there’s a palpable excitement and hope in the air for a successful performance, potentially marking a new chapter for Fijian rugby. This melding of tradition, mentorship, and competition at the Coral Coast 7s embodies the enduring spirit of rugby in Fiji and promises an exhilarating tournament ahead.