THE Lami High School (LHS) U17 rugby league team’s 2-0 victory against archrivals Nasinu Secondary School at the Southern Zone Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League competition, held at the Saint Marcellin grounds last Saturday, has instilled a renewed sense of confidence within the side.
Since joining the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League competition, the primary objective has been to expose students to the game and to the NRL scouts present at the tournament.
However, last Saturday’s triumph over Nasinu – a powerhouse in the competition – highlighted the potential of the LHS team when they play as a cohesive unit, remaining committed and disciplined.
This renewed vigour has inspired the youngsters from Lami to aim beyond their modest ambitions as they contemplate winning the Southern Zone FSSRL competition.
“This is the first time we have defeated Nasinu Secondary School. Despite our losing streak against them, we were determined to end that streak today and we thank God for his guidance and providence for the win against them,” said LHS captain Arthur James Pickering.
He added, “Looking ahead we have another tough challenge next (this) week. A lot of work needs to be done again, but today’s win has given us confidence of reaching the quarter-finals and going all the way in the southern zone.”
Given the size of the school, winning the Southern Zone will be a mammoth task for the modest institution, but it is a challenge the team has fully embraced.
Drawing inspiration from their U19 rugby union team, which rose to prominence in 2024 by winning the converted U19 Deans title, the team proudly dons the same jersey in the FSSRL competition.
The players are constantly reminded of the values instilled in those jerseys – teamwork, dedication and discipline – which, when embodied, history proves become the foundation of a winning culture.
With two wins to their names the team will hope to maintain their perfect run against Napuka Secondary School this weekend in the third round of the FSSRL southern zone competition.
