The 2009 Marist 7s is expected to be the best in the history of the annual tournament when it gets underway in Suva on February 20.

Marist Brothers Rugby Club, the organizers of the tournament, expects most of Fiji’s sevens stars of the past and present to feature in the two day meet.

Sevens legend Waisale Serevi will feature for Lomaiviti, which also includes players from Fiji’s victorious 2005 world cup team.

Another legend, Tomasi Cama will play in the veterans competition with his teammates from Fiji rugby 7s glory days of the early 90s.

“The event which is now tagged as the biggest 7s tournament in Fiji will see more than 80 teams battling for supremacy,” added tournament coordinator Opetaia Ravai.

“The Fiji 7s squad will be fielding two teams and the 7s selectors will be out to gauge their performance and identify new talents.”

Organizers have included the over 40-years category while the Women, Under-19, Indo-Fijian have also captured a lot of interests from local clubs.

“Our sponsorship has increased this year and this comes with an intention of rewarding the winning teams. We are bringing back the costume competition and cheering squad and this should be a draw card to the event.”

The two-day tournament the National Stadium marks a milestone for sponsors Fosters Group Pacific and the club.

The $40,000 sponsorship package will see lucrative prize money offered this year to commemorate its 33rd years of existence, with competitions such as best dressed group and best dressed individual.

Ticket prizes range from $10 to $5 for adults and $3 to $2 for children.