Rising stars in Fijiana 7s camp
Led by the determined double Olympian Ana Maria Naimasi, the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s rugby team is on the road to accomplish and tick boxes off their list.
Naimasi said with the players getting ready for the Fiji Airways International Mini 7s Tournament, they are preparing with the purpose to improve their game.
“Preparation is going well and the team’s training sessions have been intense as the players have the desire to win this weekend,” she said.
This Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s squad is more than just players practicing their craft; it’s a family. With an extended squad, the team has created a bond.
Naimasi said, “Right now, there are a lot of new players, and we’ve been bonding well together.”
The addition of new players brings fresh hope and energy to the team as a few senior players have moved on.
“Their level of knowledge of the game is good,” she said. While some experienced players may have moved on, the Fijiana have gained a wealth of talent from the new ones.”
Naimasi said she understands that the path ahead is not easy as the team will need to prepare for the Olympic Qualifiers as well as the Solomon Islands Pacific Games.
“This competition is much needed. It’s a steppingstone to prepare us for the Pacific Games and the Olympic qualifiers.”
With rugby giants like Australia, France, and New Zealand, the 29-year-old skipper is confident the competition will be able to elevate their game.
“But it’s not just about winning; it’s about growth. The new girls can have a feel of what it’s like to play with international players,” Naimasi explained.
The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s play their first match against New Zealand at 9:30am tomorrow.
The teams will play a round robin with three games lined up for each team. Entry to the Fiji Airways Mini 7s Tournament is Free and the public is encouraged to come out in numbers with their families to support the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team and witness some of the World Class Women’s 7s players from NZ, Australia and France right here at home.