CANADIAN Fijian sevens diehards overwhelmingly support Fiji Rugby Union’s decision to withdraw from the Canada Sevens events in Vancouver and Edmonton.
The S1-SUNsports poll conducted last weekend, show 80per cent in favour of the team’s none participation in the September 18-19, Vancouver Sevens and 25-26, Edmonton Sevens, while 15 per cent, who had already purchased the tickets, said they felt let down at the union’s late decision.
The survey polled 100 residents in each of Vancouver and Edmonton.
Majority believe the players deserve a break after having been in camp for 5 months in preparation for the Olympic Games.
The responders also agreed that the prospect of Fiji winning both the events was great based on the Olympic Games form.
FRU, CEO John O’Connor confirmed month’s of speculation that team will not participate in the Vancouver and inaugural Edmonton Sevens last Wednesday.
He said the decision came down following consultations with world rugby and giving carefully consideration to players safety and welfare they decided not to participate in the Vancouver and Edmonton Sevens.
Jacob Paumau, a staunch supporter and a member of the Fiji Cheer Group, said the players have sacrificed a lot over the 5 months all to win the Olympic gold, and now that they’ve, they deserve the much needed break.
“Good decision to take a pass on the Vancouver and Edmonton Sevens”, he said.
“Family time over the rugby for now, besides, the Covid 19 cases are on the rise, and with travel restrictions to quarantine is not making lives any easier”.
Canadian Fijians made feverish atmosphere at the BC Place Stadium, in the last 5 year running of the HSBC World Series.
And those that had already purchased tickets are now selling at half price.
Sharlin Ugra, better known as ‘Fiji 7s’ roti girl’ said considering Covid -19 cases are bad in Fiji, it is better that the team stay safe at home then travel abroad.
“Health is so important. If one catches this virus then that put the whole campaign in jeopardy”.
She said like the thousand other Fijian fans, she would’ve loved to welcome the Olympic gold medal winners at the BC Place Stadium, but will do it with the same enthusiasm and excitement next year.
“We have to understand the consequences of Covid-19, it has changed the whole world sadly”.
