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Fiji coach demands total discipline

Posted on 16th September 2009

Fiji Sevens coach Iliesa Tanivula has recalled exciting Sevens stars William Ryder and Lepani Nabuliwaqa to the national squad ahead of the 2009/10 IRB Sevens World Series, but at the same time insisted that he expects all of his players to be on their best behaviour both on and off the field.

Both Ryder and Nabuliwaqa lost their places in the country's Sevens set-up through ill discipline but the coach seems to have offered them a fresh start.

"We all make mistakes and should be given second chances," Tanivula said. "However, no player should take for granted their place in the team because we will only have the best and discipline will play a big role."

Having himself played international Sevens for New Zealand under Gordon Tietjens, Tanivula knows the importance of discipline and is determined to build the team in his own image.

"I want total commitment and discipline on and off the field," he said. "Fiji needs to be known by its rugby performance on the field and not for other reasons."

Solid foundation
Wednesday 2 September 2009

Tanivula's side built a solid foundation in the latter half of last season, winning in both Hong Kong and Murrayfield to finish second behind South Africa in the overall Series standings.

The Fijians also impressed at the recent World Games in Chinese Taipei, where they overcame South Africa and then Portugal to take Gold for the third time.

The coach has now set his sights on continuing in the same vein by building a large squad capable of dealing with the multiple challenges posed by the long Sevens season, challenging the likes of South Africa at the top of the game and realising the hopes of a nation.

"The teams and players are looked up upon and are role models to the people, hence they need to be very careful in what they do and how they act."

With the likes of Emosi Vucacgo, Orisi Sareki, Pio Tuwai and Vereniki Goneva at his disposal, Tanivula was already building a formidable side. If both are fit and focused, the addition of Ryder and Nabuliwaqa could now propel the islanders to former glory.

IRB.COM