FLYING Fijians coach Inoke Male is impressed with the commitment shown by players in the Fiji Warriors team preparing for the 2013 Pacific Rugby Cup (PRC).
The PRC competition starts this Friday.
Male stated earlier no players would be paid allowance during the PRC which would run for over a month.
He said lack of sponsors had been one of their major problems and the International Rugby Board was not giving allowances like in previous years for the preparation.
Male said the onus was on the players to show their pride for the country.
"The commitment has been good and the boys received the news in good faith," the former Flying Fijian said.
"It may affect our preparation but as we already mentioned the biggest pay-cheque is when the door opens for them for a contract overseas and also the Flying Fijians in June but its the development that matters most."
The Fiji Warriors, which is also the defending champion, plays its first match against the Junior Waratahs in Sydney this Friday.
The team leaves the country tomorrow with the hope of yet another successful PRC campaign.
"Preparation has been going well this last two weeks and boys are responding well. Our major concern is the players getting adapted quickly to the environment since we're having only a day before we play the Waratahs and this is the first trip for most of our boys," Male said.
"We have been playing the Waratahs since 2007 and last year was the first time we beat them.
"It's more important to perform at the best of our ability and to start the tour on a high note."
Male has made only one change in the 30-member squad which sees injured Mosese Taga replaced by Penaia Naweilulu.
"For families and loved ones, please do encourage your boys as this is an opportunity not to be missed and pray for them," Male added.
Fiji Warriors - Joeli Veitayaki, Jone Lesi, Leroy Atalifo, Apisai Vatubuli, Leong Koong, Seru Cakobau, Jale Sassen,,Semi Keli, Matai Ucutabua,,Aminio Nakicobula, Nathan Hughes, Apisai Domolailai, Inoke Tuisese, Kolinio Naselekale, Esira Vueti, Eremasi Radrodro, Ron Katonivere, Henry Seniloli, Aisea Luveniyali, Kolinio Vunaki, Ratunaisa Vatuiranuku, Aporosa Duana, Peni Koroyawa, Joseva Kunawave, Jo Brown, Apisai Nawaqaliva, Penaia Naweilulu, Isoa Donaldson, Lea Matayavusa, Aisea Natoga; Non-Travelling Reserves - Apete Salawaqavuka, Josefa Biu, Tikilica Vuibau