A team of Fijians living in Sydney, Australia, is gearing up to compete in the much-anticipated 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s tournament. This event will take place at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka next month. The eHub International Sydney Fijians 7s team aims to create opportunities and provide exposure for players and teams with ties to Fiji, marking a significant occasion in the local rugby sevens calendar.
The team is led by former Wallabies winger and centre Henry Speight, who brings his expertise alongside experienced players Ro Baleibau Buaserau and Abele Atunaisa. Both Buaserau and Atunaisa offer substantial experience from their high-level rugby careers in Australia, helping to mentor a squad that mainly comprises younger athletes aged 19 to 25. For many of these players, this tournament will represent a crucial milestone as they embark on their journey in high-level sevens rugby for the first time.
Proudly sponsored by eHub International, a company focused on education and migration pathways, the team also counts on the support of associate sponsors such as Bula Brothers Landscaping, Brisk Reinforcement Pty Ltd, and Tui Sportswear.
Jay Whyte, the founding chairman of Coral Coast 7s, shared his excitement about having a team with Fijian heritage from Australia participate in the tournament. He highlighted that their involvement adds a lively spirit to the event, emphasizing, “Their participation is a testament to the inclusive nature of our tournament as we celebrate the richness of rugby culture.”
Scheduled from January 15-17, the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s promises thrilling matches and a celebration of Fiji’s deep rugby traditions. The presence of the Sydney Fijians at this prestigious event is expected to cultivate connections among rugby players across borders, further reinforcing the community spirit that rugby embodies.