THE Batinikama College’s under-17 deans team emergence in the Northern Secondary School’s Rugby Union (NSSRU) competition has been fueled by an unlikely but unique partnership-two female coaches determined to prove that passion, hard work and commitment matter more than experience. The team currently prepares for the northern zone playoffs after winning the Macuata/Bua U17 title.
The achievement is even more remarkable for a school traditionally recognised for football, with players embracing rugby under the guidance of their respective coaches.
In a male dominated field, the two coaches of the side Irene Goundar (head coach) and Aradhna Lal (assistant coach) have stood out due to their relentless effort in guiding the team to win the Macuata/Bua U17 zone title and qualify for national playoffs.
The coaches shared the team’s success has been built on the players’ willingness to learn, work hard and trust the coaching process.
“The players worked extremely hard, stayed disciplined and trusted the coaching process,” Goundar said.
Lal said the players had shown resilience throughout the season despite facing several setbacks.
Communication was the major setback since players understood rugby concepts better in the I-taukei language. Limited training equipment also meant the coaching staff had to improvise, using coconut trunks as weights and vehicle tyres for strength and conditioning.
Despite the challenges, players adapted quickly and developed a strong bond on and off the field.
“Our focus has always been to help the players understand that modern rugby is about speed, smart decision-making, discipline and teamwork,” Lal said.
Coaching staff had also introduced color-coded communication systems to help players better understand their roles during matches.
While the zone title has earned the team recognition, they now shift their focus to northern zones and national playoffs. Preparations are now centred on improving fitness, sharpening attacking and defensive structures and maintaining discipline that carried the team throughout the competition.
As the team prepares for the national stage, they will carry not only carry the hopes of their school, but also the lessons that have defined their journey.
The NSSRU playoffs will be held at all saints ground in Labasa. Fixtures are as follows; Ground 1-U15 Holy Family Secondary v Holy Cross College at 8.30am, Raluve U16 Nabala Secondary v Bucalevu Secondary at 9.45am, U16 Labasa College v St Bedes College at 10.50am. Ground 2- U17 Batinikama Secondary v Nabala Secondary at 8.30am, Raluve U18 Bua College v St Bedes College at 9.55am, U19 Dreketi Central v Navatu Secodary at 11am, U18 Rt Luke Secondary v Holy Cross College, at 12.25pm, U18 Khalsa College v Navatu Secondary at 1.50pm
Irene Goundar.
Picture: SUPPLIED
