The Black Ferns Sevens, New Zealand’s women’s sevens team, are currently taking part in the Paradise 7s tournament in Fiji. Coach Edwin Cocker has conveyed his excitement about the team’s experience, highlighting the mix of seasoned players and rookies making their debut in Fiji. This blend brings a refreshing dynamic as the newcomers adjust to the island’s distinctive ambiance.
Cocker has emphasized the unique rugby culture in Fiji, marked by its lively and spirited nature, infusing the game with vitality regardless of the tournament’s scale. With the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series set to begin in December, the Paradise 7s presents an invaluable chance for the Black Ferns Sevens to refine strategies and make targeted enhancements.
Beyond mere competition, this tournament allows the team to test new playing combinations and sharpen their skills, essential for the challenges lying ahead. The opportunity to experiment with different player configurations aims to establish a robust foundation for the forthcoming international season.
The Black Ferns’ involvement in the Paradise 7s is similar to other teams’ experiences, like the New Zealand men’s sevens team, who also value such tournaments for development and preparation. The same sentiments were shared by the Australian women’s sevens team, who leveraged their Fiji tour to gear up for the World Series.
Fiji, known as the “spiritual home of sevens,” offers teams an enriching environment, fostering both competitive and cultural exchanges. This setting not only hones skills but also builds camaraderie, reflecting the sport’s principles of resilience and adaptability.
Overall, the Paradise 7s is pivotal for the Black Ferns Sevens, embodying the cooperative spirit and competitive drive that are hallmarks of rugby sevens globally.