Mangrove seeds were planted by players of the Grasshoppers Netball Club recently, as part of its commitment towards fostering community and environmental stewardship.
The planting exercise, which took place last Saturday, saw the young players plant 100 mangrove seeds in the midst of round one of competition for the Suva Netball Association.
Club secretary Unaisi Ranavue highlighted the significance of the mangrove planting exercise for the players and the club.
“Mangroves are not just trees. They protect our coastal ecosystems, prevent erosion, support marine life and act as natural barriers against climate change,” Ranavue said.
“Planting these tiri (mangroves) is our way of reminding the players that they are caretakers of this land.”
This is the club’s second community outreach engagement, the first being a rubbish pick-up drive on Saturday, May 31, which covered the area between Muanikau Park and Stella Maris Primary School.
At the time, club founder and head coach Alumeci Sachs stated community engagements as such allowed for netball to build better citizens.
“Our aim is to keep our girls engaged, educated and empowered,” Sachs emphasised.
Meanwhile, in their recent club activity, they acknowledged the Director Central/Eastern of the Ministry of Forestry, Moape Lotawa for extending an invitation to take part in the activity.
“We are grateful to Mr. Lotawa and his team for giving our girls this opportunity. We look forward to many more partnerships in the future,” Ranavue added.
With two community engagements now completed, the club now has one more activity to undertake before they travel overseas for their upcoming tour next month.
The activity will see them visit the Dilkusha Home, to spend a time and spread joy to its young residents.
It is to also reinforce the values of compassion, service and gratitude in the players as well.
The club is optimistic of what will ensue through these community engagements for its players, as it helps reflect its message of growing future leaders, one pass at a time.
Grasshoppers Netball Club players and officials plant mangrove planting exercise in Nasese, Suva on Saturday, June 7, 2025. Picture: SUPPLIED
