Social media ban on Fiji 7s players

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Members of the national sevens team have been ordered to stay away from social media as they prepare for the Rugby World Cup Sevens in Moscow.

This after negative comments were posted on social media such as Twitter and Facebook after the naming of the 12-member side on Monday.

Team manager Semi Rogoyawa said they understood players would be inclined to use social media as a form of leisure and stress relief but not before the world cup.

“Right now we want the boys to remain focused on the world cup,” he said.

“We have advised players to not use Facebook, Twitter or emails while we are preparing for such an important event.”

“There will be time for that later. Right now we need the minds of the players to be clear and on the world cup.”

He said negative comments would only demoralise players and called on the public to support them.

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“This is the time when the players need support to motivate them. Negative talk will not help us.”

Rogoyawa confirmed the team was injury free as they prepare to depart for Moscow, Russia, next week.

“All medical check-ups have been completed and there is no injury concern for us in camp at the moment.

“The players are all OK and training is continuing according to our plans.”

Last night, the Alivereti Dere coached-side had a training run at 9pm to acclimatise to training at that time in Moscow when they reach there.

The national side is drawn in Pool E with Tonga, Uruguay and defending champion Wales.

Fiji: Jasa Veremalua, Nemani Nagusa, Levani Botia (c), Waisea Nayacalevu, Leone Nakarawa, Joji Ragamate, Ilai Tinai, Metuisela Talebula, Vereniki Goneva (vc), Watisoni Votu, Alipate Raitini and Samisoni Viriviri.

The national side is drawn in Pool E with Tonga, Uruguay and defending champions Wales.

They face Tonga Saturday week at 12.28am before taking on Russia at 6.28pm.

On Sunday week, they take on defending champions Wales at 12.42am.

Pool A will see Australia take on France, Spain and Tunisia and Pool B has South Africa, Scotland, Japan with hosts Russia.

Samoa is the top seed in Pool C which also consists of Kenya, Zimbabwe and Philippines while New Zealand head Pool D which has the likes of USA, Canada and Georgia. In Pool F, England will be up against Argentina, Portugal and Hong Kong.

-FIJI TIMES

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