SET FOR WORLD
Fiji Airways Flying Fijians officially welcomed
The Fiji Airways Flying Fijians were officially welcomed at their camp base in Abashiri City, Japan, yesterday.
Captain Dominiko Waqaniburotu thanked the Mayor and the people of Abashiri City for hosting them.
“This is a memorable welcome ceremony,” he said.
“Our experience since our arrival in Japan has been so conducive for our programme and the people have been so warm and very friendly.” Waqaniburotu said while rugby was their focus – the cultural experience had been an added bonus for them.
“We truly appreciate your hospitality. We wish all teams the best in the tournament and thank you very much again Japan,” he added.
The Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team are all geared up with the challenges that are before them.
Led by head coach Gareth Baber and team mentor Tomasi Cama Snr, the side presented their i-tatau to President Major General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote at the State House, Suva, yesterday.
Before the 2019/20 HSBC World Sevens Series, Baber is taking a young team to play in the Oktoberfest 7s tournament in Germany and later in Australia.
A total of 31 players have been included in the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s extended training squad.
Baber believes he has selected a formidable extended squad with a combination of experience and developing players.
“It’s going to be a long season with the Olympics around in July, next year,” he said.
‘”So we always felt that there is always a progression to create depth in the squad in consistency in what we can put in the field. There are some players who have been developing and are showing potential that they can play in that level.
“The inclusion of three under--20 boys will be a boost for them in their future and the sevens team as a whole so the development pathway is good.”
Fijian 7s playmaker Terio Tamani believes the inclusion of young players would provide challenges for the senior players.
“It’s a plus for the under-20 boys to join us because it’s a good time for them to learn new things going into the tournament in Germany and Australia,” he said. “We will work hard in training on areas we need to improve on going into the new season.”
President Konrote wished the team good luck and encouraged the young players in the extended squad. “You have my blessings and the well wishes of the entire country, we are always behind you with prayers and support,” he said.
“To the young players you’re on track as a development player and later on you will make it to the big team.” Baber who recently returned from Japan spoke on why he had taken the trip.
“We were looking at the site venues for potential camps and also we went to Tokyo to see where the Games village was and where the players will be housed. I believe it’s my job with the manager to know what exactly we are walking into comes the Olympic Games, next year.”