Playing in the McDonald’s Coral Coast Rugby Sevens tournament is the only way for the Nauru Under-21 players to get the exposure they need.

This was the view of team manager Sefanaia Tekape who indicated that most of his players are part of the Nauru rugby development pathway programme.

“This year we are sending them over to bigger tournaments like the Coral Coast,” he told SUNsports yesterday.

“The tournament is fairly new for some of the boys but we’re always glad to come and learn and get the experience here in Fiji.”

Tekape said their target was to get the basics, techniques and defence pattern right.

“A win is not important for us as we want to learn more especially from the good teams in Fiji. We don’t have any grass back at home for our grounds so some of the boys are learning to play on grass especially the new players.”

Tekape said they strive to play the game regardless of the challenges they face.

“We have a ground but there’s bit of gravel, it’s almost like concrete so the players are so grateful to play in such a field here at Lawaqa Park.”

Tekape said other challenges faced are the cost of travel and accommodation.

“We are thankful to some of our sponsors and our government. Our players also fundraise as well.”

Tekape said they are hoping that through the programmes it would entice the young people of Nauru to play rugby.

“These players see that through sport they get to travel and over the years these boys have come to love the sport.

“Last year we had our first ever professional rugby player.”

Takape said most of their players pursue rugby with the hopes of securing overseas contract to help support their families.

“Give us another two years then we’ll start competing and go after the trophy, lots of improvement at the same time lots to work on.”

Tekape has urged Nauru nationals living in Fiji to come down to Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka, to cheer on the team.

“We also ask the locals if they don’t have any team to back, please back us,” he said.

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj