The Vodafone Fijian Residents squad are working hard during the off-season as they prepare for test matches next year.

Strength and conditioning coach Etonia Nawasetawa said the main focus during the off-season was to improve the player’s fitness.

“We are working on players’ fitness, strength and endurance so when they start pre-season they are in a good shape,”Nawasetawa said.

“It’s important we trained the players now, get their fitness level and don’t load players during pre-season because it can make them fatigue.”

The Fiji Residents side will play Tonga and Samoa in July followed by Canada and France, Australia A and the Battle of the Bati challenge in August.

The local players are also gearing up for the Champion versus Champion in February where the Fiji club champion will play their PNG counterparts.

The local players are also trying to book a spot for the Rugby League World Cup from October 27 to December 2.

FNRL chief executive officer Timoci Naleba said 2016 was a success.

“We had a successful implementation of the zone competition and setting up a High Performance Unit and elite player base.

“The Fiji Residents team winning against Canada, Tonga and the series against NRL inter-states and the English Community Lions,” Naleba said.

Edited by Osea Bola

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