You can sense it in the air. There is a high level of expectation out there. There is excitement and great anticipation. It is difficult to shrug aside the fact that thousands of fans are actually looking forward to the naming of Ben Ryan’s squad to the Olympic Games in Rio.
By now the players know who is going to Rio. They would have been given the good news by the national coach yesterday.
One wonders whether there has ever been a moment in our history when there has been so much anticipation of the naming of a team.
It goes without saying that when all things are said and done, we do have the makings of a great team.
We have tonnes of pace, aggression, strength, size, flair, and passion.
We have an abundance of talent. In fact every member of the squad at Pacific Harbour would be able to walk into most teams around the world.
Whoever Ryan chooses today should have the support of every Fijian.
Today will also see the naming of the Fijiana and our soccer team to Rio.
While Ryan’s team is already overshadowing the naming of other athletes, we can’t afford to ignore the fact that every member of our 54 athletes and 35 officials are representing Fiji. They will carry our hopes and aspirations into the premier sports event on the planet.
Fiji will be represented in 10 sports.
The fact that we head to Rio as World Rugby’s Sevens World Series champions means we are among hot favourites to win the gold medal.
We may be a dot on the world map. But when it comes to sevens rugby, we are giants.
Fijians are already relishing the thought of us heading to Rio with top medal prospects.
It’s like a breath of fresh air.
For once, when the world meets in Rio, for a massive celebration of sports, we will also be real contenders for the highest honour.
There is no doubt about the special place the Rio Olympics will have in our history.
That is why Ryan’s team is attracting attention.
That is why Fijians are already keenly looking forward to the announcement by the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama today.
Lest we forget though, every athlete who will go on to become Olympians for Fiji needs our support and encouragement.
Go Fiji, go.
