RUGBY sevens runs deep in the veins of Fijians across the Lower Mainland, where the sport is more than just a game, it is identity and pride.
With the Vancouver Sevens set to get underway on Saturday, anticipation is steadily building as fans look ahead to the showdown at BC Place at with renewed belief and excitement.
Fresh off their triumph at the Singapore Sevens and an impressive runners-up finish at the Pert Sevens, Fiji will arrive in formidable form. Confidence is high, and so too are expectations.
When the team charges onto the turf at BC Place, the atmosphere promises to be electric.
There will be no shortage of lungs in the stands as the Fijian faithful transform the stadium into a sea of blue and white, their chants and songs reverberating through the roof in unwavering support.
For many in the diaspora across British Columbia, the Vancouver leg is more than a stop on the world circuit, it is a celebration of heritage, unity and the dazzling, free-flowing brand of rugby that Fiji has proudly showcased to the world.
The event will also be a showcase of Fijian outfits and traditional wear, with the sounds of drummers, cheerleaders and raucous dancing fans creating one of the most colourful backdrops in international sevens rugby.
The party does not stop at the final whistle, as celebrations spill into the concourse in true island style.
“It is more than just rugby, it’s a show of all shows, colourful, and with every play you see Fijians dance and sing to the tune of ‘Toso Viti Toso’ (Go Fiji Go),” said Isireli Delana, adding that sevens is as much about community as it is about competition.
Delana has not missed the Vancouver stop in recent years, describes it as a homecoming for Fijians across the Lower Mainland and a rare moment when sport, and culture converge under one roof.
Fiji famously lifted the Canada Sevens title in 2018 under coach Gareth Baber.
Now, guided by new coach Osea Koilinisau, the side arrives with renewed discipline and determined to deliver a performance worthy of their passionate Vancouver supporters.
“For Fijians it is show of all shows. Canada Seven in Vancouver is the show, and let’s just live it like champions,” Delana said, oozing with joy that 2026 is Fiji’s to lose.
