Victorious National Men’s 7s team and management receive $10,000 each

All members of the Fiji Airways National Men’s 7s team and management that won the Rugby World Cup 7s, have received $10,000 each.

While speaking after the traditional ceremony at the HFC Bank Stadium, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere said they receive this cash prize from the nation for their great achievement.

He says today we celebrate not one but two victories as it was only a year ago that the Fiji 7s team came home great with the gold medal from the Tokyo Olympics and since that unforgettable win, the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions have lifted and recovery is underway.

Katonivere says for almost two decades the country has waited for the Melrose Cup to come home and the wait is over as they celebrate the victory these champions delivered for Fiji.

He says the team's determination, perseverance and sacrifice have written all of them into World Rugby history.

Katonivere acknowledged Jerry Tuwai for his impressive career.

He says with only one jewel missing in Tuwai’s crown of achievements which was the Melrose Cup he has achieved this side by side with his teammates.

He thanked Tuwai for his tenacity and humility and adds he is a role model to his fellow players and to the thousands of children across the islands who love the rugby game.

President Katonivere also commends Coach Ben Gollings and captain Waisea Nucuqu as well as the team officials for their commitment and faith in the team which led to this momentous moment.

He says the team has made a powerful statement to the world that Fiji is back and is better than ever and Fijians at home are sending the same message every day through the pace of our economic recovery.

He adds Fiji is a far safer country for having travelled through the pandemic together and as they continue the recovery, the win has lifted spirits and strengthened the country’s resolve to achieve a record-breaking year of economic growth.

Katonivere also congratulated the Fiji 7s Fijiana teams for their bronze medal victory at the Olympics and their fifth-place finish in the World Cup.

He says their stellar play has made the team's story exciting to follow in the world of sports and their best is yet to come.