The RC Manubhai 7’/14” Nataleira Sevens tournament is set to take place from December 12 to 14 at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori, featuring new regulations aimed at enhancing the excitement of the games. Tournament director Solo Finau announced the introduction of a bonus points system, which he believes will benefit all participating teams.
The organizers are aiming to attract 80 teams across four competitive tiers: Tier One for champion teams, Tier Two for regular teams, Tier Three for senior women’s teams, and Tier Four for under-19 teams. Finau emphasized the intention behind these changes is to rejuvenate interest in sevens tournaments nationwide while providing financial benefits and player development opportunities.
He mentioned that the revised competition format will push local players to showcase their skills in high-pressure scenarios. Citing that winning World Cups often occur through strategic plays, like drop goals, he encouraged teams to not just compete but to excel using their innate abilities.
To further incentivize participation, the tournament will offer instant rewards after each match. For example, a player scoring a coast-to-coast individual try will receive $100, while a team that achieves a coast-to-coast try will have their captain awarded the same amount. Additional cash prizes are available for teams scoring the most converted tries, drop goals, and penalty goals, each also set to win $100 post-tournament.
Additionally, teams will have the chance to win a reward for achieving the fastest try time — either matching or surpassing Alosio Naduva’s record of 6.78 seconds or accomplishing a try within a seven-second timeframe from kickoff.
Sanctioned by the Fiji Rugby Union, the tournament will be officially launched on December 6.
This innovative approach demonstrates a commitment to not only fostering talent but also making the tournament a rewarding experience for players, thereby attracting more teams and fans to the sport. With these exciting changes, the Nataleira Sevens promises to be an exhilarating event for rugby enthusiasts and a great platform for showcasing local talent.
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