SEVEN coaches have been shortlisted for the Fijiana 7s coaching job.

A total of 34 candidates applied for the position that is currently being occupied by acting coach Timoci Volavola.

The head coach position became vacant in December last year when former mentor Saiasi Fuli’s contract was not renewed.

Volavola has since taken up the role as interim along with the assistance of former Fiji 7s player Emosi Mulevoro.

Fiji Rugby Union chief executive Rovereto Nayacalevu said just like the Fijiana 15s, they are awaiting clarifications for work permits.

He said the recruitment is being handled by a separate panel within the FRU.

“There is a panel that sits and goes through the recruitment process. At the end of that, their recommendation is passed on to a sub-committee in the board for endorsement. There will be questions raised by the board,” the CEO said.

“The panel is made up of our high-performance unit acting general manager, HPU women’s manager and other key local figures.”

Nayacalevu said the recruitment is merit-based.

“It’s a clear and transparent program, merit based. Our women’s program, as you know, is struggling at the moment so while we try to pave the way forward, we need to ensure that we get the best available candidate to be able to reset our program.”