Digicel Fiji 7s rugby reps were yesterday tested on how tough they were mentally when fatigue kicks in.

The players went through a vigorous programme, starting with a morning session and a scrimmaging session in the afternoon with strength and conditioning training.

National coaches Alifereti Dere and Etuwate Waqa have been testing the players to see how they cope under pressure.

“We want to see how they adapt to the rugby that we want to play and the scrimmaging session is to help us work on the set pieces, scrum and line-outs,” assistant coach Waqa said.

“We’re testing their loading levels and what they should do when fatigue creeps in.”

Waqa said so far they were happy with what they saw.

But after the training session yesterday the two coaches would sit together to discuss what more was needed.

“We can have the best players but we need to see whether they have the right 7s skills like tackling, passing, being creative, decision making because mostly these small things are taken lightly.”

Meanwhile, Fiji Rugby Union trainer Nacanieli Cawanibuka was also monitoring the work rate of players who have been playing throughout last season like Watisoni Votu, Emosi Vucago, Joeli Lutumailagi and Mijieli Nacagilevu.

Waqa said Cawanibuka would help them know what each player was providing and whether they have the right players.

The two coaches are now embarking on smart training to help them get the best out of the players.