Gollings invited to coach Fiji U20 side – Whyte
THE organisers of the McDonald’s Fiji’s Coral Coast Sevens tournament say the idea to invite a Fiji under-20 side to the event was because of the inclusion of the Aussie Youth and Japan Under-18 sides.
Tournament founding chairman Jake Whyte said he invited Fiji 7s head coach Ben Gollings to field a team to test players against international teams.
“This is when I reached out Fiji coach (Gollings) to consider fielding a team in the under-20 category,” he said.
“This was made possible since these two countries were participating. This can become a pathway for further participation in the national team.
“I’m glad that Ben has taken the opportunity for the betterment of the sport.”
Tuva will be back to defend the Outrigger Youth Division.
The side heads pool A with
Waisale Serevi’s King 7s Select, Namaqa Grass Roots and Natabua Breez.
Dominion Brothers top pool B with Ralagi 7s, Japan SDS and SRS Nukuvura from Navosa.
Pool C has the Aussie Youth 7s, AJ Pallets Ba River, First Light Taveuni and NNN Tuburua from Navosa.
The Fiji U20s lead pool D with McDonald’s Vueti Cakau, PSM Brothers and Coastal Cuvu Blues.
Meanwhile, Whyte said to put together a tournament involved a “significant investment”.
“The committee is doing it for nothing. It is mostly volunteer job because of their love for Fiji and their love for the sport for rugby 7s, but it is a considerable investment” he said “We thank all our sponsors who have stepped in to support the event to make it happen.”
The tournament kicks off on Thursday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
Entry is free.