Thursday, March 04, 2010
FIJI sevens team manager Alifereti Malo has been replaced by Jope Tuivanuavou.
Fiji Rugby Union had initially appointed two mangers, Malo and Tuivanuavou on a rotational basis.
Last year, they alternated legs of the series and with Malo taking the first two legs this year, while Tuivanuavou, now appointed to take the next two legs starting with the Adelaide and the Hong Kong Sevens.
FRU chief executive officer Keni Dakuidreketi said it was an appropriate time to make a change.
“We’ve just re-looked at the format we’ve been using regarding the team manager and just felt it was an appropriate moment to make a change,” Dakuidreketi said.
“It’s also an apt time for Jope to come on board as he managed the Digicel Fiji 7s team last year when they were victorious in Hong Kong.”
Tuivanuavou has been appointed until the end of the 2009-10 IRB Sevens Series. Players for the Adelaide meet will be announced after the Fiji Bitter Marist Sevens tournament. With some of the reps injured, the selection door is wide open.
Teams such as the Savusavu Jazreel Bilibili will have players vying for a place in the team.
Team coach Roko Rakaidawa said the team had been doing well up north. “Last year, we won the Saqani and Wailevu Sevens,” he said.
He said there were a few Northern Sharks trialists in the squad.
“Some of the boys have the experience and skills but there’s a need for more exposure,” he added.
Anare Ravula
