Work on the Vinod Patel Dormitory at Ba Methodist High School has progressed to the stage where the players are starting to get settled.
“Ten of our Under 18 boys have moved in thus far, with the other 10 expected to join them on Monday,” BRU Secretary Gaby Kautoga said.
“We still have work to do to make it more comfortable, like fitting screens on the windows, but the dormitory is now habitable.”
A small ceremony was held last Tuesday to bless the building and give thanks to all involved before the boys moved in.
Kolaia Caucau, the interim chair of Ba Rugby Referees Association, is the dormitory head so there’s a strong rugby connection all around.
Meanwhile, many companies and individuals have come forward to offer educational scholarships for the boys in the dormitory.
“The dormitory fees are $500 per term which includes all meals,” Kautoga said. “Thanks to the generosity of the community – ex-scholars, individuals and the local business community – we believe we have all 20 places fully funded and will now look to add two places for up-and-coming referees.”
“That was an important part of our plans. We didn’t want to lose any players from the interior because their families couldn’t afford the fees, so we made sure all of the boarding fees were covered.”
The day scholars on the Programme received vouchers for their uniforms, equipment, books and bags.
The dormitory official opening will take place with the sponsors Vinod Patel once everything is complete.
The Rugby Dormitory at Ba Methodist is now habitable. Picture: BA RUGBY
