The Fiji men’s 7s side presented its itatau to the President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, at the State House in Suva yesterday.
They depart this weekend to take part in the Hong Kong 7s next week.
Ratu Wiliame wished the team well on its journey to the Hong Kong 7s that will be held from November 4-6.
“The boys know what Hong Kong means to them, it is where dreams start in Fiji, our well-wishes are with the team,” the President said.
Meanwhile, the Fijiana team also presented its itatau for the new season and presented a sevusevu on behalf of the Fijiana 15s side.
“To the Fijiana, you have seen the significance of today’s traditional performance (cerevi), this is to acknowledge your efforts and sacrifices.
“You went and played your best, no matter the outcome, do not lose heart.
“Playing with passion and following your dreams pays off. We will continue to support you, we all face hardships in our own lives and even through natural disasters, but sevens brings us together and that is why we are a unique nation.”
Ratu Wiliame while receiving the sevusevu from the Fijiana 15s rugby team also thanked them for their hard work during the women’s Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.
Meanwhile, allblacks.com.nz reported that one of the world’s most decorated sevens players, Tim Mikkelson, will return from injury at the Hong Kong 7s.
This will be his first tournament since claiming a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.
The NZ team has Kurt Baker, Leroy Carter, Dylan Collier, Sam Dickson, Moses Leo, Ngarohi McGarvey-Black, Tim Mikkelson, Sione Molia, Tone Ng Shiu, Amanaki Nicole, Akuila Rokolisoa, Regan Ware, Joe Webber.
Head coach Clark Laidlaw said Mikkelson had been a huge inspiration to the team.
“He has basically played one tournament, the Olympics, in the past two years.
“But every day he shows up, training the way he does with and attitude,” Laidlaw said.
