LAUTOKA is set to come alive as the 63rd Sanatan Convention football tournament kicks off tomorrow at Churchill Park, drawing more than 5,000 attendees from across Fiji and abroad.
The annual event, known for its festive atmosphere and strong community participation, will see teams competing in four football categories, the Open Grade (30 teams), Masters Grade (12 teams), Legends (2 teams), and for the first time, the Under-16 division with two confirmed teams.
Sanatan Sports President Sanjay Ram said the introduction of the U16 division and Ladies Futsal is a step forward in encouraging broader participation.
“We are happy to introduce the U16 division this year in football and the ladies futsal, which will see more than six teams participating,” he said.
In the Open Grade football category, Pool 1 features Samabula, Nadi, Wairabetia, and Tavua. Pool 2 includes Lautoka, Rakiraki, Saweni, and Cuvu. Pool 3 will see Uluisila, Suva, Nakasi, and Tuva battle it out. Pool 4 is made up of Barara/Sabeto, Labasa, and Brahman Sabha. Pool 5 consists of Taveuni, Nasinu, Nabua, and Ba. Pool 6 has Tavarau/Varoka, Valley, Votualevu, and Navua. In Pool 7, NZ Nadroga, Narere/Makoi, Tabia, and Rewa will face off, while Pool 8 includes Nadroga, Bua, and Nasarawaqa.
Alongside football, other sporting events include a volleyball tournament starting Sunday, a golf competition on Saturday at Denarau Golf Club, and a netball tournament with 14 teams competing in the Open and Masters divisions.
