Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s coach Richard Walker has emphasized the importance of reconnecting with the team’s spiritual roots through “team lotu,” which he believes is enhancing both performance and unity among the players. This practice plays a pivotal role as the squad prepares for upcoming matches in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.
Walker has observed that the team is capable of competing with the strongest opponents in the series, particularly when their dynamic attacking strategy is in full effect. He pointed out the team’s proficiency in offloading, effective communication, and support play, which enables the Fijiana to swiftly transition from defense to offense.
Training sessions have been focused on creating rapid “sparks” in attack, where players aim to regain possession from kick-offs and score almost immediately. “When we get on a roll with our offload game, our support and communication, we can compete with the top teams in the World Series,” said Walker.
A key area of focus for the team remains consistency, and the revival of “team lotu” — the group’s dedicated church and prayer sessions — has contributed significantly to their progress. Walker noted that the players have embraced ownership of these sessions, selecting Bible verses that resonate with them and relating them to their on-field performance.
“We’ve integrated the lessons from our lotu into our training — understanding its significance and how it connects to our efforts on the field,” he added. This spiritual initiative, according to Walker, has been crucial in the team’s preparations, both in Fiji and during training camps, aiding players in staying grounded while fostering confidence as they gear up for their next challenge.
The Fijiana team is set to face Australia at 9:31am, while the Fiji men’s 7s squad will play against France earlier at 7:19am tomorrow. Fans can catch the LIVE action on FBC TV, as both teams aim to showcase their talents and teamwork in the international rugby arena.