THE Nationwide Army Sammee Select side has made an impressive start to its 2026/2027 rugby sevens campaign after defeating Vunuku Brothers 21-19 in the Cup final of the Nationwide Nadi Rugby 7s in Sydney, Australia, last week.

Head coach Napolioni Naulia said the victory was a reward for the players’ sacrifices and commitment after the team was assembled within a month to compete in the Australian tournament.

Naulia said this was the team’s second overseas tournament, and he was pleased that their mission had been accomplished despite travelling with a new group of players.

“I am happy that our mission has been accomplished and the boys’ sacrifices have paid off,” he said.

“I brought in a new set of players because most of our seasoned sevens players are in the Sukuna Bowl squad. These boys have shown that they can also compete and win tournaments for the Army team.”

Naulia said the team’s success was built on humility, discipline and respect for every opponent.

He reminded his players not to underestimate any team and to approach every match as a final.

The side had been training together since last month, although some players who featured in this year’s Skipper Cup competition only joined the squad ahead of their trip to Australia.

Naulia credited discipline, teamwork and the players’ ability to stick to their game plan as key factors behind their success.

He said the achievement was even more special considering the challenges involved in raising funds and putting a competitive team together within a short period.

“Winning the main Cup final and beating some of the champion Sydney teams, including Sydney Saunaka, Saints Academy and Bula Brothers, made all the sacrifices worthwhile,” he said.

The Nadi 7s victory was the Army side’s first tournament of the 2026/2027 season and has provided a strong platform for the team moving forward.

Naulia said their next assignment was the Cairns 7s, where they reached the semi-finals, before returning to Fiji for the Lavidi 7s next week.

Nationwide Army 7s head coach Napolioni Naulia, right, with his team during the Nationwide Nadi Rugby 7s in Sydney, Australia last week. Picture: SUPPLIED