The Sanasana Rugby team will be looking to take their game to the next level thanks to a new gym opening in their village this week.

The Fiji International team has presented the village and rugby team with the facility which includes weights and boxing equipment.

Australian Tour Pro Dimi Papadatos joined Gavin Kirkman, CEO of the PGA of Australia and Fiji Rugby 7s players Kalione Nasoko and Nathaniel Labalaba to meet the village Chief to cut the ceremonial ribbon and officially open the gym.

But before the big reveal, the chief and the rest of the village showed their famous Fijian hospitality by welcoming their guests with a traditional Sevu Sevu ceremony which of course included the traditional Kava drink.

After the ceremonial celebration the gym doors were opened with Kalione, Nathaniel and Dimi all providing a demonstration on how to use the new equipment whilst the entire village came out to watch.

Even some of the younger members of the village joined in the fun trying out the gear, giving their seal of approval to the new facilities.

For a village like Sanasana, the benefit of having their own facilities is monumental and allows them to prepare and train to the best of their ability.

 

As a professional athlete, Dimi could see how this could impact the team’s future success.

“It is great to meet everyone in the village and see the player’s reaction when the gym was opened. Having a gym like this can help the team further improve and hopefully will enable them to see a lot of success in the future,” said Dimi Papadatos.

After visiting the new gym, the tournament guests were treated to a performance which included singing and dancing.

The Fiji International and the Sanasana Village have forged a strong relationship over the past four years, which continues to grow.

A highlight of tournament week is Sanasana Village opening the tournament, welcoming players, tournament staff and sponsors with a traditional Sevu Sevu ceremony.

This year Gavin Kirkman and local Fijian player Sam Lee were bestowed the honour of representing the tournament.

“On behalf of everyone involved in the Fiji International we thank the people of the Sanasana Village for their warm hospitality and support each year of the tournament,” said Gavin Kirkman.

“This tournament is popular with players and staff alike. We all enjoy making our way to your beautiful country every year.”