BA Rugby Union is set to make its mark at the inaugural Sun Bell Tuna Drua 10s competition this Friday at Prince Charles Park in Nadi.
Head coach Ben Tora is excited about the opportunity, describing it as a significant step for the team and a chance to showcase Ba’s rugby talent on a larger stage.
“The Drua 10s is a wonderful chance for our promising players to gain exposure to a higher level of rugby and intensity,” Tora said.
“Facing professional players will be a great experience for the Ba boys.”
While acknowledging the gap in resources and training between Ba Rugby and the Fijian Drua, Tora sees this as a motivating factor.
“The Fijian Drua have all the advantages, professional training equipment, an advanced environment, and specialist coaches. But this challenge excites our players, and they’re eager to give their best.”
The Ba Rugby team is a mix of young talents from the highlands and villages near Ba Town. Tora highlighted the challenges players face in attending training sessions.
“Our fly-half, Namelo from Navala Village, is one to watch. However, getting players from the highlands down to Vinod Patel Park is tough. When it rains, rivers flood, and transportation is limited. Despite this, their dedication has been impressive.”
Tora stressed that the public can expect a fast and agile backline supported by mobile forwards.
“We may not have the size, but we make up for it with speed and mobility. We feel truly blessed to be invited to this competition.”
For Ba Rugby, the Drua 10s is more than just a competition, it’s a platform for growth.
