Passion and Partnerships Build Coral Coast 7s – Whyte
Passion, strong relationships, and community support have been identified as the key forces behind the growth of the Coral Coast 7s, according to tournament organizer Mike Whyte.
Whyte explained that the tournament’s rise from a small local competition into one of the most respected rugby sevens events in the Pacific has been driven by genuine love for the game and long-term partnerships with sponsors, teams, and local communities. He stressed that trust and consistency, rather than quick profits, have helped sustain the event over the years.
The Coral Coast 7s has become a major platform for emerging rugby talent, regularly attracting top clubs and scouts, while also boosting tourism and local business along Fiji’s Coral Coast. Whyte noted that collaboration with villages, volunteers, and stakeholders has been just as important as what happens on the field.
As the tournament continues to grow in profile, Whyte believes staying true to its grassroots values will ensure the Coral Coast 7s remains a cornerstone of rugby development in the region.