Tonga 7s sing in Hong Kong [1]
Wednesday, March 25, 2015 - 11:00. Updated on Wednesday, July 15, 2015 - 11:50.
The Tongan 7s team took to the streets of Hong Kong yesterday to connect with the local community and to promote their team ahead of the 3 day HSBC World Series Qualifiers tournament set to kick off this Friday March 27 in Hong Kong, along with the annual Hong Kong Sevens tournament.
The team took part in a number of promotional events and mixed with fans.
Head Coach Andy Katoa was pleased with the events. He said “Was great to get out and meet the community. The boys were a hit – the fans wanted them to do the Sipi Tau. I told them to sing instead."
The team are supporting community causes by wearing training singlets advocating an end to violence against women and promoting suicide awareness with the Athletes for Life Network.
Andy Katoa is confident of his team and committed to developing Tongan Sevens. He stated "Prep has been going well. It is still a work in progress. But we have a good group of staff who are as committed as I am on Tonga 7s getting better. I see this as a great opportunity for these kids."
Tonga will be competing against other third tier team vying for core status in the next HSBC World Series. Core status will be granted to the team that wins the Qualifiers tournament.
Tongan Team: Jack Ram, Inoke Finau, Manu Tuifua, Isikeli Taufa, Richard Taliuli, William Hafu, Taliauli Sikuea, Meiohihifo Kuli, Kasye Greer, Sosefo Ma’ake, Fautasi Mau (Captain), Irwin Finau
Andy Katoa (Head Coach), Tavake Fangupo (S&C Coach), Rachel Underwood (Physio)
Fixtures: Tonga vs Spain (March 27), Tonga vs Zimbabwe (March 27), Tonga vs Guyana (March 28).
Teams participating in the HSBC World Series Qualifiers tournament: Tonga, Hong Kong, Spain, Zimbabwe, Guyana, Papua New Guinea, Tunisia, Russia, South Korea, Russia, Uruguay, Brazil and Mexico.