Senirusi Seruvakula confirmed yesterday that he has also applied for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians head coach position.

The Fiji Airways Fijian Drua coach said he has applied for both positions (Flying Fijians and Fijian Drua) and will take which one he is successful at.

Seruvakula said there was a need for more local coaches taking up such positions to help strengthen the rugby culture in Fiji.

“Having a local coach will be an advantage for both players and coaching staff,” Seruvakula said.

“Fijians understand Fijians better, we know each other better and communicate in a way that will help strengthen our rugby culture.”

Seruvakula stressed the need for change.

“There has to be some changes made, especially in creating a pathway for local coaches,” he said.

“By providing more training for coaches will be beneficial for the players as well.”

Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer John O’Connor stated during the Special General Meeting last Saturday that McKee has re-applied for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians head coach position.

McKee’s contract due to expire on December 31.

Meanwhile, the FRU has received more than 30 applications for the Fiji Airways Flying Fijians head coach position

According to FRU chief executive officer John O’Connor, the majority of applicants are from overseas, with McKee’s name also in the mix.

Suva eyes Skipper Cup coach

Meanwhile, the Suva Rugby Union has yet to make a decision on their new head coach for the 2020 Skipper Cup Premiership season.

Union secretary Tevita Tuiloa said notable names like Sakaraia Labalaba, Jope Tuikabe, Anare Masi and Saiyasi Fuli have put their hands up for the top spot.

“As for now will be sending out expression of interest to all our coaches for our 2020 season at the same time try and get in some new talent for our pool of coaches so we can develop them moving forward,” he said.

“We are closely monitoring the coaches from our clubs and we have plans to have coaching clinics.”

Tuiloa added the service of Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s coach Fuli is temporary.

“Fuli came on board as a technical advisor on a part time basis due to his commitment to the Fijiana 7s team,” Tuiloa said.

“He is focusing on the preparations of the Fijiana 7s team for the Women Seven Series and the Olympic Games in Japan 2020.”

“We have a few other good coaches from our club competitions as well that we can develop.”

“Once a coach has made it to the highest level we always have another one on standby and ready to carry out the tasks of grooming players.”

Edited by Osea Bola

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