The Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s has big plans to develop the women’s division next year by increasing the number of teams in the women’s division.
The tournament has come a long way since the inaugural event back in 1986.
Back then, the tournament attracted only 20 teams and offered a total prize purse of $1000 with three cartoons of beer.
The likes of Manasa Qoro, Esala Labalaba, Savenaca Aria, Sainivalati Laulau, Meli Rauluni, Vili Rauluni, Vesi Rauluni, Tomasi Cama, Pauliasi Tabulutu, Etuate ‘Honda’ Gusuivalu, Noa Nadruku, Viliame Tani, Mesake Seavula, Paulo Nawalu, Aliposo Waqaliti and Ilaitia Ravouvou were part of the tournament.
Nawaka Rugby Club secretary Varanisese Derenalagi said this year’s tournament was challenging because of the wet weather conditions.
She said the rugby players always looked forward to playing on a dry pitch in Nadi.
“While the ground was muddy in certain areas, the rain certainly cooled off the heat at Prince Charles Park,” Derenalagi said.
“It is always a challenge to make changes so the tournament is better each year. For next year we will be focusing on promoting women’s rugby.
“We will be increasing the numbers.
“This will give the other teams a chance to compete. In this way we are supporting the Fiji Rugby Union in developing women’s rugby.
“We thank Paradise Beverages for promoting grassroots rugby.”
Derenalagi said the tournament had come a long way.
“Fiji Bitter has been supporting us from our grandfathers and fathers time to the current generation,” she said.
“We are so thankful to that partnership.”
