The Taveuni Grassroots under-20 rugby team is poised for an exciting challenge as they prepare to compete in the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji Sevens tournament, which kicks off tomorrow at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. With guidance from former national sevens star Sireli Bobo, the team aims to make a substantial impact despite only having two weeks of preparation time.
Bobo expressed unwavering confidence in his squad, remarking, “This is only our second week of preparations, but we won’t use that as an excuse when we compete in one of the biggest sevens tournaments in the region. We have prepared thoroughly, just like all the other teams, and our goal is to go out there not merely to make up the numbers, but to win the $10,000 prize money.”
The tournament stipulates that players must be born in January 2006 or later, leading the team to primarily consist of new recruits, with only three players retained from the Fiji Sports Council Grassroots development program. The team has quickly assembled promising young talents from various areas, including Ba, Namosi, Ratu Navula, and Tailevu.
The competition is fierce, as Taveuni faces a strong pool that includes defending champions, the Broncos, and RKS, who were finalists in the recent Grassroots Sevens. Bobo acknowledges the challenges ahead but maintains a positive outlook on the potential for his team to achieve notable upsets.
“There will be no easy matches in a prestigious tournament like this,” Bobo noted. “But as I said before, we are confident in our preparation despite the limited time together. Our aim is not just to participate but to win the youth category.”
With the excitement building as match day approaches, the Taveuni Grassroots team is eager to demonstrate their skills and resilience on the rugby field, ready to compete on one of the sport’s grandest stages. This tournament not only presents an opportunity for young talents to shine but also showcases the spirit and dedication of rugby in Fiji, bringing together communities and aspiring athletes for a thrilling display of sport.