Saint Francis College from Rakiraki made a memorable debut at the 2026 Crest Fiji Secondary Schools Netball Championship in Suva, fielding an Open Girls team for the first time at the national tournament.
For team captain and Year 13 student Elesi Sigarara, leading the side at such a major competition was an emotional and proud moment.
The Barotu, Saivou, Ra native said the team had prepared well and was grateful for the opportunity to compete against some of the country’s best school teams.
“We prepared well for the three-day competition, and we are very fortunate for taking part in the Fiji Secondary Schools Netball Championship in Suva,” Sigarara said.
Despite the challenges faced in reaching the national championship, Sigarara said the experience had already given the young team valuable lessons.
The captain, who was visibly emotional while speaking about the opportunity, said the team would return home as winners regardless of the final result.
“We faced many challenges to be here, and we want to return with a lot of lessons when we return after the competition,” she added.
Sigarara also expressed her appreciation to those who supported the team throughout its journey.
“I would like to thank my principal, the teachers, the staff members and our parents who are supporting us from the villages, we would like to thank you for your support,” she said.
School principal Dhirendra Nand was also in Suva to provide moral support to the players.
“We have been backing the team with their needs, and I thought it was a need for me to come and provide them the moral support needed,” Nand said.
Nand said the tournament was primarily about giving the students valuable exposure.
“While they have been doing well, result is secondary for us as the primary aim to for them to experience competition as this level,” Nand added.
