NEW ZEALAND MARIST FIJI SEVENS TOUR
March 2010

On the 6th March, the touring squad met in Auckland to start their campaign in what is arguably the biggest 2-day 7's tournament in the world. With 129 teams, including 80 in the senior men's, this was going to be a new experience for all who boarded the flight to Nadi. After a 4 to 5 hour bus ride to Suva, we finally arrived at our Motor Inn and began preparations immediately for the tournament week.

The hospitality of our Fijian hosts was exceptional, however our delicate intestinal systems caused a number of concerns. We were careful about what we ate and more importantly what we drank. Whilst there was no 'Suzie' there was a wide-spread effect within the team shortly before the tournament began. However playing against rugby players who live 7's, and in one team's case took a four day 'walk and boat trip' just to get to the tournament, shows that there would be a great hurdle to jump to achieve success in the tournament. With 80 teams in our section there were four pool games on the first day and had to be in the top three of your pool to make day two.

Throughout the week our time was spent getting to know each other through training, school visits and the normal run of the mill daily issues of meals, host functions, media requests and the downtime periods where everyone experienced what Suva had to offer. Two functions at Fiji Marist's Rugby Clubrooms introduced us to the friendly welcomes and Kava. Visits to three Primary Schools and one college gave great insight to the school system and the kids love of rugby and anyone new to their islands.

 

 

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