Despite the lack of a school ground for training, the under-18 team of Ratu Simione Matanitobua College from Namosi achieved a remarkable 8-5 victory in their opening match against Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School in the Fiji Secondary Schools Southern Zone 7s competition.
Coach Viliame Kaseni highlighted the team’s progress, noting that last year they had only one team.
“We only had a U17 team that made it to the quarterfinals, but now, we’ve got three teams – U17 boys, U18 girls, and U18 – and they’re all doing great in the competition,” said Kaseni.
He emphasised training in a small school compound had not deterred the students’ dedication to both sports and studies.
“We don’t even have a proper ground to train on at our school; despite this challenge, our students are excelling in both sports and academics, and it’s truly inspiring to witness.
“Getting to face big schools like MGM, Marist, and Suva Grammar, it’s a big challenge for us.
“Our confidence and hard work paid off when our U18 team defeated MGM 8-5 in our first match.”
Coach Kaseni expressed gratitude to the teachers and parents for their unwavering support, particularly during the school holidays.
The team is focused on continual improvement and aims to make a lasting impression in the competition and aims for getting to the nationals next week.
Suva Grammar School lost to Nasinu 14-21 in the U16 final. Nasinu also defeated Suva Grammar in the U18 final.
In the U18 Raluve competition, Lomary Secondary School defeated Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School 12-7.
Meanwhile, Fiji Rugby special administrator Simione Valenitabua says the tournament gives buddying 7s players a chance to showcase their skills and raise their hands to one-day represent the country in future HSBC Sevens tournaments.
“Our national selectors will be able to identity prospect players from this tournament to be part of our development pathway programs and monitor them through to national duties,” he said.
