Former England 7s coach Ben Ryan is the new Digicel Fiji 7s coach.
FRU Deputy Chair Daniel Whippy said Ryan is expected to arrive in the country within the next few days and he is expected to coach the Fiji team starting with the Fiji Water Centennial International 7s which will be held on the 4th and 5th of October.
Ryan is contracted for three years and he will take the Fiji team to the Rio Olympic Games in 2016 with the aim to win Fiji’s first Olympic gold in 7s rugby.
Whippy confirmed that the FRU has also contacted the IRB to assist Fiji in funding part of Ben Ryan’s package.
FRU’s Acting Chief Executive Doctor Berlin Kafoa said the IRB has indicated its willingness to assist the FRU but the appointment is a national one first.
He said other issues will be discussed with the IRB later.
When questioned by Fijivillage on what measures are being taken to ensure that Ryan does not face any obstacles as an expatriate coach, Daniel Whippy said Ryan will get all the support and he expects no problems.
We also questioned Whippy whether Ben Ryan will make the final decision on who makes the Fiji 7s team.
He said he cannot give a clear answer but the current system is expected to continue.
Whippy said the board is trying hard to bring in more sponsorship to make FRU financially stable.
He said this can be achieved by having good rugby teams that deliver the best results.
Three managers have been announced for the 2013 and 2014 IRB 7s series.
They are Paula Biu, Ropate Kauvesi and Isei Rayawa.
These managers will be rotated and their appointments are based on performance.
It has also been confirmed that 20 players will be contracted for the 2013 and 2014 IRB series.
Story by: Vijay Narayan
Feature
Ben Ryan appointed new Digicel Fiji 7s coach
