By: Daphne Rasehei
In the wake of Telecom Fijiana’s success in the Oceania 7s championships, the Fijian government’s allocation of $2.4 million is not enough to cover both the men’s and women’s 7s teams for the Rio Olympics.
Fiji 7s coach, Ben Ryan, was delighted with the budget and the government’s financial aid for both programs.
“It’s something we are truly grateful for and they have been fantastically generous.
“But $2.4 million is not enough for both programs,” he said.
With the road to Rio now more apparent for the Fiji Women’s Rugby Team, Lorraine Mar, the Chief Executive of FASANOC stated in the Fiji Times that “corporate sponsorship and merchandising partnerships will enhance Teams Fiji’s success at these international events.”
Nonetheless, despite financial setbacks, the Fijian women were the shining stars of the tournament and are very optimistic of their chances at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
“We are so pleased to qualify for the Olympics but we know we have to improve our fitness and skills further. Importantly we have to keep believing in ourselves,” a delighted Fijiana captain, Anna Maria Roquica, said.
