A two-day Fiji Airways mini seven series will kick start the women’s sevens teams off season preparation for the upcoming World Series, says Fijiana sevens coach Saiasi Fuli.

The five teams participating in the two mini seven series in Suva and Lautoka are Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, USA and France.

Fuli said the initiative was discussed after the Toulouse sevens in May this year.

“They all want to try out the weather here, it’s good for us to host such a tournament,” Fuli said.

“Something we can consider in the future is hosting a world women’s sevens series here.”

Fuli said the first of the two series will be held at Albert Park in Suva this Friday and Saturday; the second at Churchill Park, Lautoka, on September 29-30.

“We have a squad of 26 players and we’ll split them into two teams,” he said.

“One team will head to the Solomon Islands for the Pacific Games and the second will head to Brisbane for the Oceania Olympic qualification.

“We’ve been training the past two weeks after a two months break. It is good to have this type of competition to measure performance.”

On debut

Ketei, Moala, Lau lass Michelle Seruvatu is one of the new players who is likely to debut for the Fijiana sevens side this weekend.

“I have just recently joined the Fijiana sevens squad and it is a good surprise to be included,” Seruvatu said.

The 19-year-old plays wing for the Striders Rugby Club before she was selected for the Fijiana

squad.

“I look up to Reapi Ulunisau as she always motivates new players,” she said.

The former Lelean Memorial School sprinter is grateful for her supportive family.

“I am blessed with such a good family.”

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj