MOSTLY made up of young men from the three provinces of Cakaudrove, Bua and Macuata, the Bluelight under-21 sevens team have become a powerful symbol of hope and development in the northern division.
The team reflects a raw but determined group of players, many of whom are unemployed, grog farmers, and street dwellers.
Originally from Kadavu, head coach Aisea Vusonitokalau made the bold decision to start a youth development program in Labasa using rugby as a tool to shape discipline, purpose and opportunity for the players.
“Beyond the field, the players have been actively engaged in community and force-related work, including cleaning shops and assisting taxpayers around Labasa.
“These community engagements have not only instilled responsibility but also strengthened the team’s unity and commitment,” Vusonitokalau said.
This 17th Fiji Bitter Savusavu Sevens marks the Bluelight under-21’s second appearance in the Fiji Bitter Sevens series, and the management is realistic about where the team stands.
Vusonitokalau added that, lessons from their previous outing in the Labasa 7s revealed loopholes within the squad, which the management and coaching staff have addressed through strategic planning.
According to him, the team is still a work in progress, with the players steadily developing towards the standards he expects at this level.
The head coach also acknowledged the crucial support from organizations that have played a role in the boys’ journey.
“I would like to thank the Labasa Chamber of Commerce, the Fiji Police Force in Labasa, and the Labasa Town Council for their collaboration and for allowing the players to participate in community work programs,” Vusonitokalau said.
With continued support and steady development, the Bluelight under-21 team is proving that rugby can be more than just a game — it can be a pathway to change.
The tournament ends tomorrow.
