BEING named in the Japan 7s Dream Team came as a surprise for Telecom Fijiana captain Ana Maria Roqica.
The 29-year-old was one of the standout players for the national team in Kitakyushu last weekend.
Roqica said it was through the efforts of the rest of the players that she was chosen in the best seven along with Miriama Naiobasali.
“I’m proud of the girls,” she said.
“We had a good result in Japan even though we lost to Australia in the bronze medal playoff. We are still fourth on the points table. We had good support in Oita, Japan and spent six days in camp to adapt to the weather.”
Roqica said the team’s performance was improving since the first tournament in Dubai last December.
“Next tournament in Canada we are targeting the final,” she said.
“We will only be resting for five days. There are a lot of talented girls out there. The coach (Iliesa Tanivula) selected some from the Marist 7s and they will join us at training.
“Against Australia in Japan, there was a lack of communication. That is why we lost. However we hope to improve from that. There will be video analysis done.
“I did not know that I would be part of the Dream Team. I want to thank the other girls because with their support I was chosen along with Miriama.”
