EXCITEMENT is building within the Dartmouth Women’s Rugby Team as they prepare to make their mark at the 50th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s today.
Co-captains Paola Almeida and Katelyn Walker said the American women’s rugby side has been counting down to the tournament for months and is relishing the opportunity to compete in a nation where rugby is deeply embedded in the culture.
“We’re so excited to be in Fiji and to play rugby in a place where the sport is so big compared to the States,” Walker said.
The team has been fine-tuning at the Uprising Resort ground, where they have trained alongside the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team.
“We’ve been running with the Fijiana 7s team and learning different styles and flair. It’s been wonderful for our preparation,” Almeida said.
Heading into the tournament today, the team is focusing on speed and defensive intensity to counter the free-flowing nature of Fijian rugby.
“This is our first tournament of the season, so it will set the baseline for us. We’re excited to grow and take what we learn here back home,” Walker added.
