Alfreda Fisher, a debutant for FIJI Airways Fijiana, is fully embracing the learning curve after her first appearance in the fast-paced world of rugby sevens. The Fijiana XVs captain recently made the transition from 15s rugby to the 7s format, with her debut occurring at the Singapore 7s event over the weekend.
Fisher took the field as a substitute in Fiji’s opening pool match against Australia, gaining invaluable experience against some of the top teams in the sport. She later made a significant impact in Fijiana’s final pool match, scoring the first try in a commendable 34-12 victory over Japan.
Reflecting on her debut, Fisher acknowledged that transitioning from 15s to 7s has posed challenges but also offered rewarding moments. She described the faster pace, heightened intensity, and differing gameplay as significant adjustments that she continues to navigate. Fisher emphasized the importance of learning, stating, “It has been a day of learning. There are many changes from how we play in 15s to 7s, and I’m still learning.”
Fisher expressed gratitude for her teammates, who have been instrumental in supporting her through this transition. “The girls have been very helpful, guiding me through the processes. I’m thankful to everyone and feel blessed to have the opportunity to represent my country in another code of the game,” she noted.
As the Fijiana team prepares for the upcoming Perth tournament in Australia, they are aiming for improved results following a tough outing in Singapore, where they narrowly missed qualifying for the Cup competition. Their second pool match, a close contest against the USA, ended in disappointment with a score of 17-22 in extra time.
This experience marks a pivotal moment for Fisher and her teammates, as they hone their skills and prepare to make their mark in the competitive rugby sevens arena. With determination and teamwork, the Fijiana squad is looking forward to showcasing their growth and resilience in future tournaments.