TEAMS interested in competing at the Fiji Bitter Labasa 7s next week have been reminded that entries are being accepted strictly on a first-come, first-served basis.
Games coordinator Vika Vataniyaragi said only teams that complete their payments early will be guaranteed spots, as several divisions are already oversubscribed.
“For the men’s division there will only be 32 spots. So far, 40 teams have been booked, and we will only take teams who come first with their payments,” Vataniyaragi said.
She said the women’s division will be limited to eight teams, with 10 teams already booking their spots.
For the U21 division, only 24 teams will be accepted, although 28 teams have already shown interest.
“We will only take in the first 24 teams who will pay their registration fees,” she said.
Vataniyaragi said organisers are hopeful of fine weather and are expecting strong competition throughout the tournament.
“We have faith that it will be a beautiful weather next weekend. We are anticipating a tough competition from teams, and it will be a good rugby weekend,” she added.
The main objective of the Fiji Bitter Labasa 7s is to raise funds for two major projects in the Nawadamu community the construction of a gym and a community hall.
“The gym will be open to all clubs affiliated with the Macuata Rugby Union.
“It will help at the grassroots level and assist players preparing for the Macuata team.”
She added that the long-term vision is to strengthen local rugby to a level where teams can one day compete at major tournaments such as the Coral Coast 7s.
Plans are also in place to build a community hall, which will play a vital role during natural disasters.
The estimated budget for the two projects is around $300,000, with the tournament playing a key role in helping achieve that goal.
The Fiji Bitter Labasa 7s will be held from January 8-10 at Subrail Park.
