Tonga Sevens has named Adriaan Ferris as head coach for the side taking part in the Olympic Sevens Qualifier in Monaco next month. Former 'Ikale Tahi player, Viliami Vaki, was named as manager for the tournament.

The announcement was made today by Auckland-based Tonga men’s Sevens coach Tevita Tu’ifua.

The challenge of COVID-19 has meant Tonga is unable to send a Sevens side from New Zealand or Tonga, including coaching staff.

“I could not be happier with having Age [Adriann] and Pila on board. They have both been involved at a high level with rugby and more importantly have a passion for Tongan rugby,’ said Tevita.

Adriaan has had previous involvement with Tonga Sevens dating back to 2008. He helped coach the Tonga Sevens side at the World Cup held in San Francisco in 2013 and was Assistant Coach for the ‘Ikale Tahi in 2014.

He has also coached at a high level in New Zealand as Head Coach of the Northland Fifteens and sevens sides and at a high level in USA.

Former 'Ikale Tahi player, Viliami represented Tonga at the 2003 and 2007 World Cup. He captained Tonga in 2005 against Italy and France and was also part of the Pacific Islanders side in 2006. He also played professionally in Romania, Italy and France and is currently coaching in Italy. He has also played sevens for Tonga.

Tevita said the final squad was just being worked through at present, but the coaching staff were very happy with the team that was being assembled.

In Monaco on 19-20 June, Tonga will go up against Samoa, Ireland, Zimbabwae and Mexico in pool A with the top two teams going into the playoffs. Pool B has France, Hong Kong, Chile, Uganda, and Jamaica.

The overall winner of the tournament will secure the last men’s spot for the Olympic Sevens in Japan in July.