Fiji rugby sevens coach Ben Ryan has been handed his own piece of paradise as a reward for the Pacific nation’s gold medal success at Rio 2016.

The 44-year-old Englishman has been awarded with three acres of land in the South Pacific after he masterminded Fiji to a 43-7 victory over Great Britain in the final of the inaugural Olympic rugby sevens tournament.

Fiji’s gold medal, the first in the history of the small island nation, sent shockwaves around the country – catapulting Ryan to the level of national hero.

Ryan has already received the Companion of the Order of Fiji — the highest honorary title that can be awarded under the Order — from Fijian president Jioji Konrote.

However, he has now been bestowed with a traditional chief’s name — Ratu Peni Raiyani Latianara — by the people of Serua, one of Fiji’s 14 provinces.

Ryan received his new land and titles in a special ceremony on Sunday in front of hundreds of Fiji supporters.

However, he is expected to step down from his position with the Fijian rugby team in the coming weeks.

Ryan, who was also England’s rugby sevens coach between 2007 and 2013, has been reportedly been offered a lucrative contract by Japan.

The Brave Blossoms are still searching for a full-time coach, following the departure of Eddie Jones to England last year. —SportsMail

 

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