They’ve only been around for five years, now Ratu Simione College is one win away from reaching the national Fiji Secondary Schools Deans competition.
The school from Namosi has qualified for the under-19 semi-finals of the Southern Zone dean’s competition for the first time, and they will face Assemblies of God High School (AOG) this weekend.
Southern Zone president Rusiate Wadali said the U19 clash is expected to be one of the most exciting games of the weekend.
“Ratu Simione are the new kids on the block. This is their first time making the semi-finals.
“Assemblies Of God is one of the older names in the competition but have been away from the top for some years,” Wadali said.
“One of these two schools will play in the national play-offs after this weekend.”
The other U19 semi-final will see Nasinu Secondary take on Naitasiri Secondary.
Wadali confirmed that the winners of this weekend’s semi-finals will play in next week’s Southern Zone final to decide first and second place.
The losing teams will also play again next week to decide the third qualifying spot for the national competition.
In the U18 grade, Nabua Secondary will take on Marist Brothers High School.
That match will be held at Thomson Park in Navua.
The second U18 semi-final will see Suva Grammar play Nasinu Secondary School at Suva Grammar School grounds.
In the U17 grade, MBHS will meet Ratu Sukuna Memorial School, while Suva Grammar will face Nasinu Secondary.
In the U16 category, Suva Grammar will take on Nasinu Secondary, and Marist will face Gospel High School.
For the U15s, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School will play Nasinu Secondary, and MBHS will take on Suva Grammar.
Wadali said they were thankful that the season had not been affected by weather.
He is now calling on supporters, families and former students to come out in numbers to cheer for their schools in this crucial stage of the season.
Wadali also encouraged the need for good sportmanship from teams, players and supprters as well.
