The upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament, scheduled for January 16 to 18, 2025, at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, is generating immense excitement as it may mark the last competitive appearance of rugby legends Jerry Tuwai and Rosko Specman on the sevens stage. Both celebrated players will form part of the Mike Friday Select 7s team, a significant collaboration that fans have eagerly anticipated after years of witnessing them as rivals on the field.

Jerry Tuwai, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year, recently added a silver medal from the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics to his impressive accomplishments. Known for his exceptional skills, leadership, and embodiment of Fijian rugby’s spirit, Tuwai exemplifies humility and flair.

On the other hand, Rosko Specman, affectionately known as “Specmagic,” is renowned for his incredible speed and agility. He played an essential role in South Africa’s success during the 2017/2018 HSBC World Series and has made a successful transition to 15-a-side rugby, competing for the Cheetahs in the Pro 14 league. Specman also boasts bronze medals from both the Rio 2016 and Paris 2024 Olympics.

This tournament holds added significance as it will be the first instance these two icons will play together rather than against each other, heightening the event’s historical importance. The Mike Friday Select 7s team will also include other notable players, such as former Irish 7s captain Harry McNulty and American standout Matai Leuta, alongside promising Fijian talents like Lasaro Bogisa and Iowane Teba.

A remarkable total of 44 teams will participate in the Coral Coast 7s, comprising 16 men’s teams, 16 youth teams, and 12 women’s teams, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere fueled by both local and international talent. With free admission, the tournament invites community participation and promotes unity among fans.

This significant event not only serves as a potential farewell to Tuwai and Specman but also as an inspiring platform for aspiring young athletes. By celebrating their legacies, the Coral Coast 7s aims to foster a lasting passion for rugby and encourage community engagement. As fans prepare to witness an electrifying display of skill and sportsmanship, this tournament stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of rugby in Fiji, reinforcing its cultural importance and encouraging future generations to take up the sport.