Fiji Men’s Dubai 7s

Excitement is building in Dubai as the new HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series gets set for kick-off this weekend.

The 16 men’s and 12 women’s captains gathered in Dubai on Wednesday to officially launch the competition, which began for the women’s teams yesterday and today for the men’s.
Vodafone Fiji’s Olympic gold medal-winning captain Osea Kolinisau said their achievement has made a massive difference: “It has been life-changing. You get asked for a lot more photos and you get invited to all sorts of places to try and inspire children. But life is all about changes, and now we start with the new series and we have to readjust, starting here in Dubai.”

The Vodafone Fiji 7s Team was also awarded the Team of the Year Award by the famous Esquire ME at the Marriot Hotel and were presented the trophy by Fiji 7s maestro Waisale Serevi.

Stand in Coach Naca Cawanibuka said that the team were very honored and humble to be awarded this top award at such a glamorous event graced by renowned business people, singers and movie stars.

“We thank God for his providential care and guidance upon the team on all our journeys. The love and support of families and friends, all their villages, communities, club and provincial coaches, school teachers and mentors who have nurtured these boys right throughout their careers. We would also like to thank the Fiji Rugby Union, the Fiji Government, the Provincial Unions, all the corporate sponsors, and our wonderful global fan base, the staff and management of the Uprising Resort and the former reps – our heroes who shaped the legacy and richness of Fiji 7s history, all former national coaches and all others who have helped shape this progressive journey.”

“This will only spur the boys to continue to work hard and achieve beyond and against all odds. This is a total family affair where we need each other’s positive prayerful support where we win together and sometimes we lose, but it is all part of the journey. We are Fiji. We are very unique. And the world has awoken to that. Thank you everyone. Whatever the team achieves is the nations.”

FRU CEO, Mr John O’Connor congratulated the team on the award and wished them all the best for the Dubai 7s.

“Congratulations on the well-deserved award. As you take the field this weekend all eyes will be on you as you defend the title in Dubai. I would like to wish you all the best and remind you that we want nothing less than a win. So go out there play to the best of your ability and make the nation proud.”

Meanwhile Vodafone Fiji 7s player Jasa Veremalua has been named one of the players to watch at the Dubais 7s. The DHL Impact Player of the Year for 2015-16, Veremalua is a menace to play against. Tall, fast and with hands like frying pans, the Fijian flyer is as adept under the high ball as he is at scoring in the corner. His stats alone last season warrant a second glance: 116 tackles, 40 breaks, 69 offloads and 135 carries. Add 29 tries to those statistics and you have a complete sevens player who will be key for Fiji as they aim to retain their Dubai title.