USA Women’s 7s Team Inspired by Fijian Rugby Passion during visit to Namaka Public School

The USA Women’s 7s team was initially drawn to Namaka Public School by chance when they happened to stumble upon a group of young girls passionately playing rugby during a random drive-by on Saturday. 

Today, the team paid a visit to the school, where they shared some rugby drills and games with the students.  

This break from their intense preparations for the Fiji Airways International Mini 7s Series, scheduled for Thursday was much needed for the team. 

Coach Emilie Bydwell expressed her amazement at the Fijians’ love for rugby. 

“We simply passed by Namaka Public School last Saturday and were captivated by the sight of people wholeheartedly engaging in rugby. The Fijian passion for the sport is truly remarkable, and we’re here to embrace it all.” 

This is the first ever visit of the USA 7s team to Fiji.  

“Being in a country that has rugby as a part of their culture and heritage aligns well with our team values around connection, selflessness, courage and resilience. Its nice to be somewhere we see those values being lived out every day,” she added.  

Team USA is among the six participating teams in the two-day tournament. 

Bydwell welcomed the opportunity provided by Saiasi Fuli and Fiji Rugby to immerse themselves in the Fijian culture and connect with this rugby-loving nation. 

“We will use this opportunity to see where our training has placed us and ways we can improve as we play against the top teams in the Womens 7s Series,” said Bydwell. 

The Fiji Airways International Mini 7s Tournament will take place at Churchill Park in Lautoka, with the exciting addition of two teams, the USA and Australia’s main team, joining the competition.