'The players talk about it often' - Fiji sevens thinking of home after cyclones hit Pacific nation

The sevens team is trying to win Commonwealth Games gold as people back home try rebuild their lives.

Fiji sevens coach Gareth Baber admits recent natural disasters that have hit the Pacific nation are a topic of a discussion in camp as the team prepares to bid for its first Commonwealth Games gold medal this week.

Last week six people died when Cyclone Josie hit the island of Viti Levu, while Cyclone Keni has hit Kadavu this week.

Baber, speaking to media following a training session yesterday, said the devastation wasn't extra motivation for his side, but was occupying the minds of his players.

"If you look at any motivational element you want to perform, I think many sportspeople would say they're not far away from doing it for the ones they love and care about," he said.

Gareth Baber says the team always plays with expectation, and this tournament is no different.

"What happens in Fiji, the whole of Fiji feels it. Equally when we win the whole of Fiji feels that as well.

"The players talk about it, often, they are very loving of their homes, their families and their communities, and when we come together as a group, whether in praying or team meetings, that's reflected upon.

"We're fortunate and blessed to be in a position that we can represent Fiji, to the way that we do, and we represent the people back home that are obviously that are not having such a great time at the moment.

"It's happened previously, but it will be forefront of our minds going into this weekend."

Fiji play Wales, Uganda and Sri Lanka in pool play, with the top team progressing to the final four. 

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