Fuli offers positive tone
FORMER national 7s rep and Fijiana 7s coach Saiasi Fuli is of the firm belief that the postponement of the 2020 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games is a wise decision.
“That’s the best decision for all countries made by the IOC and the Prime Minister of Japan,” the Army’s Sukuna Bowl winning coach said.
“This will allow all countries and teams to work together in preventing the spread of the coronavirus.”
Fuli also offered a positive tone. “Once we get through this, everyone can focus on resetting their goals, adjust their training programs and work hard towards the next tournament, right up to the Olympics, which I believe will be held next year.”
The Lovoni, Ono-i-Lau native conferred with this newspaper the reaction of the Fijiana squad members, in light of the postponement.
“Last week, we completed our block two training and the girls are in top shape. Unfortunately, everything had to stop. Though it will kill their momentum physically, they have each been distributed their individual training programs to follow, which I will continue to monitor, however, of equal importance is the restrictive measures placed around the COVID-19. We have to be mindful of that.”
Fuli further quipped of his intentions, in light of the postponement.
“I had narrowed the squad down, focussing on the possible candidates to represent the Fijiana, but I believe the postponement offers an opportunity to other females. The selection door is wide open again, so I will invite more potential players to join the squad. I will try to inspire more females to join and play rugby as we continue to develop the game among the women.”
The former national rugby sevens halfback had a message to the masses.
“Let us continue to work together to prevent this deadly virus. The Government and all the supporting agencies are doing their very best to contain it. It is our duty, as responsible citizens, to strictly adhere to and follow their instructions. Not listen and follow all lies spread on social media.” The Fijiana 7s team was the second team to qualify directly to the 2020 Summer Olympics, after winning the Oceania 7s tournament, which was a qualifying tournament.