Tanivanuakula ready to defend Coral Coast 7s title – FBC News
[Source: File] Fiji Airways men’s 7s star Kavekini Tanivanuakula has never tasted defeat at the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s. The Ba native has played at the tournament twice, representing two different teams, and walked away with the title both times, in 2023 and last year. The Army officer will be back in action for the defending champions, Fiji Babas, when the 14th Coral Coast 7s kicks off tomorrow at Lawaqa Park. Article continues after advertisement Tanivanuakula says he is grateful to be recalled to the national extended squad ahead of the iconic tournament. “I first played at the Coral Coast 7s in 2023, representing the Army, and we won. I played again last year with the national men’s 7s side, where we also won and currently hold the Coral Coast 7s title.” Looking ahead to the three-day tournament, Tanivanuakula says the team is ready for the challenges that lie ahead, both from local clubs and overseas visitors. “Our preparations are going well, but there are still gaps to fill and areas to improve. Communication on the field and our defence are key, along with how we connect off the field before matches.” The Fiji Babas will kick off their campaign against Police Blues at 1.15pm tomorrow on Ground Two. Fans can catch all the action LIVE and EXCLUSIVE from Ground One on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Drua 7s focused on strong start at Coral Coast 7s – FBC News
[Photo Supplied] The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua 7s are confident their preparations have set them up well ahead of the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s, which kicks off tomorrow. Coach Nemani Nadolo says the squad has enjoyed an extended and productive build-up, with sevens proving an exciting opportunity for players to stake their claim and proudly represent the Drua jersey. Nadolo says while the format may differ from the traditional 15s game, the standards and pride remain the same whenever players pull on Drua colours. Article continues after advertisement The Drua 7s side features a balanced mix of experience and youth, blending proven performers with emerging talent eager to make the next step in their careers. Nadolo highlighted the influence of seasoned leaders alongside development players who are being exposed to the demands of elite competition. Tournament captains Elia Canakaivata and Joji Nasova will lead the side, with Nadolo describing the combination of leadership and youthful energy as a major strength of the squad. After falling short in the semi-finals last year, Nadolo insists the team is not looking too far ahead this time around. Instead, the focus is firmly on taking the competition one game at a time. The Drua 7s open their campaign against the British Army 7s, a side Nadolo describes as a quality outfit from Europe, stressing that his players are fully locked in on that opening clash. Nadolo says if the team executes its basics and handles the early matches well, the rest of the tournament will take care of itself — but for now, all attention is on making a strong start at the Coral Coast. The tournament starts at 9am and you can watch the LIVE coverage on FBC Sports. Overseas viewers can watch it on Viti+ for $99. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
New Zealand 7s hope to create history at Lawaqa – FBC News
The NZ 7s side are hoping to create history at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka when the dust settles this Saturday. No overseas team has ever won the McDonalds Coral Coast 7s men’s title on Fijian soil, and that daunting record is exactly what motivates New Zealand’s men’s sevens development side heading into this weekend’s tournament. Facing the intensity, heat and flair that define Fiji sevens, the young New Zealand squad knows it is stepping into one of the toughest environments in the sport. But rather than being intimidated, player Scott Gregory says the challenge has sharpened their focus and ambition. Article continues after advertisement “We know it’s hotly contested with the Fijian teams, so we’d love to be the first international team to win it. But we also know it’s going to be really tough.” For Gregory, the opportunity to compete in Fiji carries special significance, with the Coral Coast 7s widely regarded as a proving ground for elite sevens talent from around the world. “It’s awesome. It’s a cool opportunity. Coming to play in Fiji is the place to play. You guys really know how to play, so I’m really excited for the weekend and can’t wait.” As the Coral Coast 7s kicks off, New Zealand arrive not just to compete, but to test themselves against the very best, and possibly rewrite tournament history. The Coral Coast 7s will kick-off tomorrow at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka and it will air LIVE on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Homecoming for Peace at Coral Coast 7s – FBC News
Aussie Select 7s debutant Garlen Peace is happy to be home, not only for the 14th edition of the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s, but also to strengthen his connection with his Fijian family. The young halfback has both First Nations and Fijian heritage, with his Fijian roots tracing back to Votua Village on the Coral Coast, where his father is from. The Australian development side has arrived in Fiji ahead of the tournament, and for Peace, the occasion carries deep personal meaning. Article continues after advertisement “My mum is Aboriginal and I’m very close to my Aboriginal family back in Australia, and this trip is a great opportunity for me to strengthen my connection with my Fijian family. It’s a dream come true to be able to play in front of my Fijian family who haven’t had the chance to see me play before. Having them there in the stands will be incredibly special, and I can’t wait to run out knowing they’re watching.” The Aussie Select 7s, coached by Shannon Fraser alongside assistant coach Matthew Sonter, wasted no time settling in, holding their first training session on Fijian soil yesterday at Cuvu College on the Coral Coast. After reaching the quarter-finals in their debut appearance last year, the Australian side returns to the tournament for a second consecutive year, with their participation supported by the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports program. Drawn into Pool D in the men’s division — one of six pools at this year’s tournament — the team is preparing for a challenging week of rugby against some of the strongest sides Fiji has to offer. Peace says he is eager to make the most of the opportunity both on and off the field. “I’m just looking forward to soaking up as much as I can from this experience, learning as much as possible, and then taking those learnings back to Brisbane to hopefully have a strong season.” Assistant coach Matthew Sonter added that the tournament will be an important test for a squad featuring several debutants. “It was great to get the boys out on the field for our first training session here in Fiji. We’ve got plenty of talent in the team, and with a number of debutants, this tournament is the perfect opportunity for our boys to test themselves against the best in Fiji and really earn those experiences.” Rugby Australia’s Head of Pacific Partnerships, Daniel Millis, says the Coral Coast 7s represents far more than just elite competition. “This is about more than just the rugby. Sport has always been one of the strongest bridges between Australia and Fiji. Through programs like PacificAus Sports and opportunities such as the Coral Coast 7s, we’re not only developing athletes, but building lasting relationships grounded in respect, culture, and shared values. These connections between players, communities, and nations are a powerful reminder of the impact rugby can have beyond the field.” With preparations well underway and local support building, the Aussie Select 7s will look to make a strong impression when they open their Coral Coast 7s campaign on Thursday afternoon in Sigatoka. The Coral Coast 7s starts at 9am tomorrow at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. You can watch the LIVE coverage on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Selection door remains open, says Kolinisau – FBC News
Our national men’s 7s extended squad had a scrimmage session with the British Army 7s side ahead of the Coral Coast 7s that starts tomorrow. Fiji Airways men’s 7s coach Osea Kolinisau has reiterated that selection for the national squad remains open, stressing that talent will be rewarded regardless of where players are currently plying their trade. Speaking after a scrimmage session involving his side and the visiting British Army 7s team Kolinisau thanked the players for the competitive hit-out and highlighted the value of exposing his squad to different opposition. The Olympic gold medallist noted the British Army capitalised on a couple of Fiji’s mistakes, crossing for two tries, which he says provided useful learning moments for his team. Article continues after advertisement “Those are areas we want to fix as a team. But overall it was a good session and I was grateful to the boys, especially the British Army players, for coming in and pushing us.” More importantly, Kolinisau used the opportunity to deliver a clear message to players outside the core professional group — the door to national selection remains wide open. “I told them straight that selection is not limited to the boys playing in the PG programme. Me and the management team are always looking for talent.” Kolinisau adds that strong performances at club and invitational level will not go unnoticed, with deserving players given the chance to prove themselves in camp. “If you’re good enough, we might call you in to join camp and see if you’ve got what it takes to represent your country.” The message serves as a timely reminder that Fiji’s men’s 7s setup continues to cast a wide net, encouraging depth, competition and hunger as the team builds toward its next major assignments. Meanwhile, Kolinisau is fielding a young side for the Coral Coast 7s that starts tomorrow at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. You can catch the LIVE and EXCLUSIVE action on FBC Sports. Overseas fans can watch it LIVE for $99fjd on Viti+. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Bula FC secures naming rights partner – FBC News
[Source: Bula FC/Facebook] Extra Bula FC has secured a major boost ahead of its maiden campaign in the OFC Professional League, welcoming Extra Supermarket as its official naming rights and major sponsor. The partnership marks a significant step for both parties, with Extra Supermarket extending its long-standing support of football in Fiji into the professional ranks. The supermarket chain has been a consistent backer of the game over the years, supporting tournaments and competitions at various levels across the country. Article continues after advertisement Extra’s move to partner Bula FC reflects its broader commitment to community wellbeing and healthy living, values that align closely with the club’s focus on fitness, discipline and positive lifestyles through sport. Fiji FA President and Executive Board Member Rajesh Patel praised the partnership, describing it as a strong endorsement of the direction local football is heading. “Extra Supermarket has always been behind football in Fiji, supporting tournaments right across the country. To now see them involved at the professional level with Bula FC is very encouraging and shows a real belief in the direction the game is heading.” The agreement also represents a major milestone for Fiji Football as a whole, with Extra Supermarket’s total investment across all divisions — from futsal to domestic competitions — now reaching FJD $1 million. It signals a progression from grassroots and youth development into sustained backing of the professional game. Extra Supermarket Chief Marketing Officer Lailanie Burnes says the partnership was about more than just branding. “For Extra Supermarket, this partnership goes far beyond branding. It is about nation building through sport, inspiring our youth, uniting communities and proudly positioning Fiji on the international football stage.” Bula FC officials say they are looking forward to working closely with Extra Supermarket as the club begins its professional journey, with a shared goal of growing the game, engaging communities and building something special for Fiji football. Meanwhile, Bula FC is counting down hours to their first match which will be the OFC Pro League opener against Vanuatu United FC at 2pm this Saturday. The match will be held at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
First of many milestones await as Bula FC near historic kick-off – FBC News
[Source: Supplied] Bula FC’s opening match this Saturday will mark the first of many milestones for the new club and the new league, from the first goal and first win to the first starting eleven, who will forever be written into the competition’s history. Acting chief commercial officer Naziah Ali Krishna says the occasion carries enormous significance, with the fixture set to be the inaugural match of the league as well as Bula FC’s first competitive outing. She says this match is very special because it is the first of everything. Article continues after advertisement “The first goal, the first win, and the first players to ever take the field in this league will all come from this game. That is something we can all celebrate.” With just two weeks remaining before kickoff, Ali Krishna believes the match will also introduce fans to the squad assembled to represent Fiji on the professional stage. “This is when people will really get to know the team we have put together. Based on the selection process, I feel we have assembled the best that Fiji can provide at the moment.” She expects the historic opener to deliver an exciting contest and showcase the work done by the coaching staff and players in the build up to the season. “There is a lot of excitement around the team, the coach, and everyone involved. Everyone is really looking forward to this first match.” Ali Krishna also called on supporters, particularly the Fijian diaspora in Auckland, to rally behind the club as it begins its journey. “Bula FC is Fiji’s national professional club. We did not exist a few months ago, but we will be flying the Fijian flag when the first match begins.” She urges fans to play their part as the 12th man, noting that supporter groups have already been formed and will travel with the team throughout the region. “We need as much support as possible during this first series. If you are in Auckland or able to travel, come and support the boys and be part of the Bula tribe from the very start.” As the countdown continues, Bula FC’s debut promises to be the first step in a journey defined by history, ambition, and many more firsts still to come. Bula FC are counting down the hours to the inaugural OFC Pro League season, which gets underway this Saturday at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand. The club will open the historic competition against Vanuatu United FC in a 2pm kickoff. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Former Fiji 7s rep to feature for British Army at Coral Coast 7s – FBC News
[Source: File] British Army Lance Corporal Pita Ratukadreu, who earned a surprise call-up to the national side during the 2022 London Sevens, is back home and set to feature at this weekend’s Coral Coast Sevens as part of the British Army 7s team. Ratukadreu’s national debut came under extraordinary circumstances, as he was preparing with the British Army side in the United Kingdom when he was contacted to join Fiji as a replacement player. The moment remains one of the highlights of his rugby journey. Article continues after advertisement “That year in 2022 we were also preparing for a tournament in London when I got a call to join the Fiji national side as a replacement, and I couldn’t believe it. When the jersey presentation came, that’s when I realized a dream was becoming a reality, and I was over the moon.” The former QVS Old Boys and Pacific Warriors Nairai player described the experience as humbling, especially given the depth of rugby talent in Fiji. “From all the talents here in Fiji, I was grateful to be called up to the national side, and all glory to God.” Before moving to the UK, Ratukadreu built his foundations in local rugby, featuring in the 15s competition with QVS Old Boys Rugby Club and in the sevens circuit with Pacific Warriors Nairai. He says those early years shaped his discipline and prepared him for opportunities overseas. Now returning to Fiji for the Coral Coast Sevens, Ratukadreu hopes his journey will inspire young players to remain committed to their craft, as the tournament once again brings together top local and international talent on Fijian soil. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Malolo Skipper in Seattle line-up for Coral Coast – FBC News
[Instagram/ Seattle Barbarians] 2025 Skipper Cup-winning captain Manueli Bari will line up for the visiting Seattle Barbarians at the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens, which kicks off this Thursday at Lawaqa Park. Bari headlines a strong Seattle Barbarians squad that also includes Malolo fullback Tevita Ledua, who returns after being part of the team featuring Olympic gold medallist Semi Kunatani last year. The side boasts a solid local presence, with Apisai Ledua, Jone Gaunavou, Erami Gavidi, Sevuloni Tawake, Amenio Nahalo, Onisimo Nawalu, Aminiasi Natoga, Semisi Lave, Tomasi Tawake and Jerry Motukana also named in the squad. Article continues after advertisement Seattle Barbarians will play their first match at 5.30pm against Nationwide Sydney Nadi. You can watch the LIVE coverage of the Coral Coast 7s on FBC Sports. Overseas viewers can watch the three-day action on Viti+ for FJ$99. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Extra Supermarket Named Major Sponsor of Bula FC
Bula Football Club has officially welcomed Extra Supermarket as its naming-rights and major sponsor, marking a significant milestone as the club prepares for its debut in the OFC Professional League. Extra Supermarket has long been a committed supporter of football in Fiji, backing tournaments and competitions across multiple levels of the game. This new partnership extends that support into the professional arena, aligning the brand with Bula FC’s ambitions on the regional stage. Known for its strong advocacy of healthy living and community wellbeing, Extra Supermarket’s values closely align with Bula FC’s mission to promote fitness, discipline and positive lifestyle choices through sport. Fiji FA President and Executive Board Member Rajesh Patel welcomed the partnership, praising Extra Supermarket’s continued contribution to football development in the country. “Extra Supermarket has always been behind football in Fiji, supporting tournaments right across the country. To now see them involved at the professional level with Bula FC is very encouraging and shows a real belief in the direction the game is heading,” Patel said. With this expanded agreement, Extra Supermarket’s total investment in Fiji Football — spanning futsal, domestic competitions and professional football — has now reached FJD $1,000,000. The milestone reflects the brand’s evolution from grassroots and youth development to supporting the professional game. Extra Supermarket Chief Marketing Officer Lailanie Burnes said the partnership represents more than sponsorship. “For Extra Supermarket, this partnership goes far beyond branding. It is about nation building through sport, inspiring our youth, uniting communities and proudly positioning Fiji on the international football stage,” Burnes said. Bula FC expressed its excitement about the partnership, looking forward to working closely with Extra Supermarket to grow the game, engage communities and build a strong future together.