The Vodafone Fijiana XV left Fiji on Wednesday, ready to compete in the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.
The squad has been carefully prepared, with an emphasis on discipline, teamwork and high standards.
Head coach Ioan Cunningham said selecting the final squad involved more than just evaluating players’ skills.
“Being honest, we’ve grown a great environment with high standards around what is expected as a Fijiana player,” he said.
“For us to compete on the world stage against the best teams in the world, if standards on team culture isn’t kept to, then the team comes first and we have to make decisions around what’s best for the team.”
Cunningham added that some players were not included because they did not meet these standards.
“For us to compete, the team comes first, and we have to make decisions around what’s best for the team. That’s what we’ve done,” he said.
Despite the tough selections, spirits in camp were high ahead of departure.
Cunningham described the mood as a mix of excitement, anticipation and a little anxiety.
“We’re going into a tournament that’s probably going to be the biggest female rugby competition ever,” he said.
“We’re super excited by that opportunity to go on the global stage and show everyone what great rugby players we have. We just can’t wait to get going.”
The Fijiana XV will open their campaign against Canada, currently ranked second in the world.
Cunningham said the focus now is on ensuring the team is ready to perform from the first whistle.
“The rest is all about getting clarity and being ready to play Canada,” he said.
Cunningham, who has worked with the squad for more than three months, said he has enjoyed every moment with the players and staff.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with the staff and players and now we just want to get out there and show what we can do.”
The match against Canada is scheduled for next Sunday.