THE Kaiviti Silktails have named a 38-member squad to be part of their first Elite Development Program (EDP) for the 2021 season.
The Silktails are currently in Sydney, Australia undergoing quarantine before moving to base camp in Eastern Suburbs in preparation for the Ron Massey Cup.
Silktails manager Jacquelin Shannon said the door for EDP squad this season was still open.
“Along with this first group of players that have been named in the EDP, players from the Vodafone Cup will be able to make it into the squad over the course of the season through strong performances with their respective clubs,” Jacquelin said.
“With the Vodafone Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League competition starting up again this year, we will also have a close look at the players who are participating in it and invite the best crop of young boys to participate in the EDP.”
Asaeli Saravaki (East coach), Kenny Nadoro (Sigatoka coach) and Ben Tubakibau (West coach) together with national EDP manager Linda Shannon will oversee the training squad.
The EDP will consist of four days of gymnasium workout and two field sessions each week. Jacquelin said this would still allow players to train with their clubs and their performances would be monitored during the weekly matches.
“This group of players will train and vie for a spot in our 2022 Silktails team,” she said.
“We strongly believe that it is imperative that we have a strong EDP as it is the key to our long term success.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the staff and coaches at the respective hubs who have given up their time and have committed themselves to run the EDP while the current squad is in Australia.”
The following players have been selected to be part of the 2021 EPD: (East) Timoci Namotukula, Saviriano Tuimaisala, Anisito Komai, Eparama Rabuni, Aminio Siga, Veremo Doverua, Filipe Sauturaga, Jale Lagidela, Marika Waqatabu, Mesake Kurukitoga, Malakai Leiloma, Neville Fiu; (Coral Coast) Manoa Marika, Vilimone Naqarase, Ilai Nareki, Isireli Vananalagi, Josateki Masibalavu, Nemia Nawave, Lepani Volavola, Viliame Tunidau, Simeli Waqabaca, Aisea Naitinikoro, James Gordon, Ratu Sailosi Nawerecaqa, Manasa Levatabua; (West) Jese Vurogorogo, Vereti Peceli, Iliesa Lulu, Semesa Qera Jr, Joshua Khan, Seremaia Tuinoda, Manoa Satala, Jone Nasau, Josua Soronakadavu, Joseva Vunisalevu, Semi Kanamasu, Rusiate Vakalomaloma, Vilikesa Wara.
