CHURCH College Fiji may have suffered a heavy defeat in their opening match of the Fiji Secondary Schools Southern Zone Deans Trophy competition against Suva Grammar School, but team management remains focused on the bigger picture.
Under-14 manager Unaisi Nayagodamu said the newly assembled side showed courage and confidence despite going down 43-0 to Suva Grammar School in their first outing last weekend.
“This is a newly formed team, and we have not been part of the competition for many years,” Nayagodamu said.
“Our boys played well and showed a lot of confidence. While the result was not what we hoped for, our focus is on building this team for the next five years as they progress through the grades and eventually reach the Under-18 level.”
The squad is made up mainly of Year 7 and Year 8 students, with only a handful of Year 9 players, making it one of the youngest teams in the competition.
Nayagodamu said preparations for the season began soon after the coaching staff was appointed, with players committing to training sessions during the school holidays.
“Our coaches are mostly church leaders who have been part of the school system for many years. We work together to prepare the boys mentally, physically and spiritually.”
The return to the Deans competition comes during a significant year for the school, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
“Rugby, netball, basketball and all our activities this year are part of celebrating our school and celebrating life,” she said.
Looking ahead to the next round, Nayagodamu said the management team would focus on building confidence and improving the players’ physical preparation.
“We don’t want our students to be discouraged by this first result. We are looking further ahead and helping them develop into better players and better young men.”
She also acknowledged the strong support from parents and the wider Church College community, who have backed the team throughout its preparations.
“The parents have been there every afternoon during training, supporting the boys academically, spiritually and on the field. We are grateful to our church leaders and supporters who continue to encourage us to do our best and serve others faithfully.”
