THE Fiji Airways Fijiana Sevens team side is placing strong emphasis on unity, identity and mental preparation as they gear up for the World Championships tournament in Hong Kong this weekend.
Speaking from Hong Kong, head coach Richard Walker told Times Sport that bonding has become a central pillar of the squad’s preparation, with players encouraged to build deeper connections both on and off the field.
“Everything we do is together,” Walker said.
“From the moment we wake up, even going to breakfast, we make sure we move as a team. No phones and it’s about talking, connecting and really getting to know each other.”
Off-field activities have played a significant role in strengthening team bonding.
He added that unique initiative introduced into camp involves players pairing up for coffee sessions with teammates they may not know well.
“You might train together or even play against each other, but do you really know where they come from and their background. The team has also focused heavily on cultural identity, encouraging players to reconnect with their roots and understand their place within their villages and communities. We are trying to build genuine understanding,” Walker said.
The initiative also extends to understanding traditional roles and responsibilities, with some players coming from chiefly backgrounds or families with strong leadership ties in their villages.
The Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s will open their Hong Kong 7s campaign against Japan at 8.44pm tomorrow. They will then take on Brazil at 12.01am Saturday before meeting New Zealand at 5.01pm Saturday in their final pool match.
