It is with a heavy heart I have to inform the people of Fiji that I will not be coaching the team to the next Olympic Games – Baber

Outgoing Fiji Men’s 7s team coach Gareth Baber says it is with a heavy heart that he has to inform the people of Fiji and the Fiji Rugby Union that he will not be accepting the contract offer to coach the Fijian 7s Team to the next Olympic Games.

Baber helped Fiji successfully defend its Olympic title, led the team to a World 7s Series win and won 12 tournaments with Fiji.

Baber further says he has a burning ambition to challenge his coaching again in the 15’s environment and knows that he must immerse himself in this if he is truly to be measured and to progress in his coaching career.

He adds he is an individual who is driven by the challenge of the sport that he loves, and this is what brought him to Fiji in the first place, the chance to coach the best 7s team in the best rugby nation in the world.

Baber further says he and his family have lived the sporting experiences in Fiji that he never thought would have been possible.

He thanked the FRU Board and everyone for supporting them on their journey.

Meanwhile, FRU CEO, John O’Connor says it is a sad day for Fiji Rugby and Fiji as a whole.

He says the board has accepted Baber's request for an early release.

O'Connor says the Men's 7s team will be under the guidance of Fijiana 7s coach Saiasi Fuli and captain Jerry Tuwai.

He adds they will advertise the new coaching role tomorrow.

Baber's contract will end on the 30th of November.

Gareth Baber steps down as Fiji Men’s National 7s coach