Fiji Rugby Announces Gareth Baber as Consultant New National Program Manager for 7s Rugby.

Suva, Fiji – February 20^th, 2024 – Fiji Rugby is thrilled to announce the appointment of Gareth Baber as Consultant National Program Manager for 7s Rugby, overseeing both the men’s and women’s national 7s programs. The former 2020 men’s 7s Olympic gold medal winning coach will play a crucial role in ensuring a robust strategy is in place as the team’s build-up towards this year’s Summer Olympics.

With a wealth of experience in rugby management and a proven track record of success, Gareth Baber brings a unique blend of leadership, strategic vision, and technical expertise to his new role. His engagement comes at a pivotal moment for Fiji Rugby as the Fiji Airways national 7s team’s prepare for the remainder of the HSBC SVNS Series and the Summer Olympics 7s competition which is scheduled for the 24^th to 30^th July in France.

Gareth will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the men’s and women’s national 7s programs, including player development, coaching strategies, tournament preparation, and performance analysis. He will work closely with coaches, players, and support staff to ensure that our Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team and Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s are well-prepared to compete at the highest level on the global stage.

Gareth’s appointment ensures Fiji Rugby’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to maintaining its position as a powerhouse in the world of rugby sevens. His leadership and expertise will be instrumental in driving the performance standards of both the men’s and women’s national 7s teams as they aim to win medals at the Olympics.

Commenting on his appointment, Gareth said, “I feel honored and privileged to have the opportunity to consult as The National Program Manager for 7s. I am very much aware of the tradition of excellence in mens and womens rugby sevens in Fiji and how much this means to the country. I am committed to recognizing this legacy and use it as a foundation for preparations for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

“I look forward to working closely with the talented players and dedicated staff to ensure that Fiji Rugby continues to thrive on the world stage. Further, I would also like to personally thank Cardiff Met University for their unwavering support in this decision and where I look forward to developing the Rugby Programme post Olympics.”