Most of the boys have come off the domestic competition while some are part of the eliminations this weekend – which means they are in top fitness condition despite the short turn-around.
Shop N Save Fijian Warriors, Coach Cohen Politini highlighted as the team have entered camp in Nadi, finalising preparations for their one-off match against the touring Australian Country side this Thursday, at King Charles Park.
The visiting Australian squad is made up of players from regional areas including farmers and tradesmen, who arrive battle-hardened as they have been in Fiji for two weeks, having warm-up matches against the Army Rugby team and, most recently, a combined Malolo Rugby side.
The tour is a key initiative under the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports Program, strengthening athlete development pathways between the two nations under the Vuvale Partnership.
The Fijian Warriors team is primarily made up of players under the age of 23.
Coach Politini says he is really excited for the boys that have made the team, particularly the new boys that have come through the Vodafone Vanua Cup.
Sevuloni Tawake (Navosa), Amani Tukana (Taveuni) and Savenaca Durusolo (Kadavu) have been impressive during the Vodafone Vanua Cup and earned a spot in a team that is being assisted by the likes of Ilai Derenalagi (Assistant Coach), Aca Ratuva (Assistant Coach), Tikiko Nauma (Strength & Conditioning), Kausheel Prasad (Manager) and Senirusi Seruvakula (Technical Coach).
The coach also emphasised the blend of experience and fresh talent within the squad, noting, they have some new talent in the team and they are being guided by players who have been through their pathways systems and are now seniors in the team that will lead the pack.
Beyond the rugby, a more profound goal unites both teams and the community as the match is dedicated to the fight against breast cancer, announcing that all gate takings will be donated directly to the Fiji Cancer Society.
Politini says they will be playing for mothers, aunts, and grandmothers that have battled through breast cancer.
He is urging the fans to come in numbers to not only support the boys, but support the Fiji Cancer Society in their work of raising awareness and early detection.
The coach says it is our duty as citizens of this nation to support these causes and the boys will be doing this their way on the rugby field.
The match kicks off at 2pm this Thursday at King Charles Park and tickets are $5 for all ages and will be available for purchase at the gates on game day.
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