Rampur College of Navua is working to build a competitive team for the Vodafone Deans Rugby Competition, focusing on long-term development rather than immediate results.
Their under-15 team suffered a heavy 7-51 defeat to Nasinu Secondary School yesterday at Thomson Park, but team manager Ezekiel Koroisau remains optimistic about the future.
“Our focus is not just on winning matches. The boys have been training hard, and we’re receiving strong support from our principal and teachers,” Koroisau said.
“It will take time, but with continued effort, these young players will eventually make an impact in the competition.”
Yesterday marked a milestone as the Southern Zone Deans competition was hosted at Thomson Park for the first time. Koroisau believes this new venue will have a positive impact on schools in the Navua area.
“Rugby hasn’t had much presence in Navua schools, but bringing the competition here will inspire both teachers and students. It’s a step in the right direction and will help grow interest in the sport,” he added.
Despite the loss, Rampur College remains committed to nurturing talent and promoting rugby among its students.
The school views participation in the competition as a valuable experience for its players, providing them with exposure and a chance to grow in the game.
In another under-15 fixture at Thomson Park, Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School delivered a dominant performance, defeating Namosi Secondary School 67-0.
The results highlight the range of talent across the zone as the competition gains momentum.
Results: U18: MBHS 62-0 Gospel, CMF 8-8 Nabua, SGS 12-15 Nasinu. U19: Naitasiri 60-0 RSMS, NSS 41-8 AOG, RSMC 26-12 Namosi, Lami 26-12 SGS. U17: MBHS 73-0 LDS, RSMS 12-0 DHS, SGS 36-5 Lami, JWC 27-15 SHC, Nasinu 15-15 Naitasiri. U16: MBHS 36-19 GHS, Lomaivuna 7-5 DHS, CMF 40-0 MCI, SGS 57-5 Nabua, NSS 25-9 SMC, Lomary 22-5 RLC. U15: CMF 5-10 RSMS, GHS 5-8 KSS, MBHS 27-0 JWC, NSS 51-7 Rampur. U14: MBHS 13-5 DHS, SGS 8-5 NSS. U18 Raluve: Naitasiri 36-5 RSMC, SGS 22-12 AOG, MGM 66-0 LDS, Lomary 56- 0 RLC. U16 Raluve: SGS 0-10 NSS
