World Footy News

AFL Fiji has named a training squad for IC11, with some of their talented Under 16s currently in contention.

Although we haven't had official comfirmation yet that the Fijians will definitely make it to Australia for the 4th installment of the International Cup, the squad will be preparing with every intention of being there.

For more see the story by Torika Tokalau on Fiji Live: U16 reps boost Fiji AFL senior squad.

The 40-member squad consists of mainly players that have only taken up the sport in less than four months but will be cut down to a final 30-member team by June 5th. AFL Fiji development officer and acting coach Glen Butler knows his side will be inexperienced but will gain a lot from the exposure. “These countries have competed in this competition already and know what to expect. This will be the first Fijian team to compete in the AFL International Cup” says Butler.

The squad will be playing practice matches every Sunday afternoon right up until August as they prepare for the tournament. “The improvement I have seen in so many of these players is amazing!”

Also part of the senior squad are players that represented Fiji at the Under-16 Championships in Tonga earlier this year. “The boys who played in Tonga last year are now a year older, bigger and stronger. I am certain they will pass on their experience to other players in the squad,” explains Butler.

Defenders   Benny Rokotuitai, Akeai Mudunabole, Semiti Mateiwai, Jonathan Chonkit, Solomoni Navuso, Kameli Yacalevu, Jekope Finiasi, Eroni Kakaivalu, Manueli Rodan, Osea Bolanaivakalele, Josaia Drokanakawai, Sitiveni Waqairadovu

Mid-fielders  Anasa Brown, Joji Kapiteni, Matthew James, Bill Tuni, Semesa Salavou, Jiuta Vateitei, Wilson Kacivi, Alipate Bevu, Mesake Koroi jnr, Waisale Tavatuilagi, Eramasi Veibiliyaki

Forwards  Alipate Navuso, Josua Soroimaiwasa, Max Wolfgramm, Jacob Michale, Jeffery Pauli, Semi Tikoitoga, Sulio Magiti, George Kasami, Joeli Nayacalevu, Penasio Cerecere, Malakai Nabukavou, Mikaele Waqavara

Rucks Mesake McGoon, Laijasa Bolenaivalu, Atunasa Lewanavanua, Lawrence Rakacikaci, Timoci Tuinasakea

Emergencies Kitione Ratuburua, Dylan Wolfgramm, Nemani Rokobuli