The future of Fijiana 7s head coach Saiasi Fuli is now in the hands of the Fiji Rugby Union.
This was according to Fuli when asked about his plans with the Fijiana 7s team after the Olympic Games in Paris.
Following their fourth consecutive loss in the tournament yesterday, some took to social media calling on the FRU to change the Fijiana 7s coaching panel.
Some questioned the systems in place especially as Fuli has been with the team for the past five years and players experienced enough to play at that level.
“The intention is just to coach them for the four-year cycle leading up to the Olympics and the next Olympics. It is for Fiji Rugby to decide, I can’t decide anything,” Fuli said.
He said he had spoken to the team about his intentions.
“I have other things to do in life for my family but right now my focus is to complete the tournament here in Paris.”
Fuli took over the Fijiana 7s coaching role from Ro Alifereti Doviverata in 2019.
He led the national women’s side to a bronze medal win at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.
“I’ve managed myself well in the past four years looking after this team, coming from tier two in 14th position to 6th, and in the last few years we’ve progressed so well.
“The reality of rugby is sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, it was not what we expected even though the preparation was well organised, the support from Fiji Rugby was there, and we had the support of the Government and the public, but it is what it is, that’s the result,” Fuli said.
The FRU is expected to conduct a full review of the Olympic teams in August.
“I want to acknowledge and commend the dedication and hard work of Saiasi Fuli. Coach Fuli has been an integral part of our program, bringing his expertise to the development and performance of the Fijiana 7s team,” FRU interim chair Peter Mazey said.
“As is customary, we will conduct a comprehensive review of our Olympic campaign.
“This review will include an assessment of all aspects of our preparation and performance, including coaching, training programs, and support systems.”
Fuli and the Fijiana 7s team will depart France on August 2 and arrive in the country on August 4 alongside the men’s team.
