Suva Grammar School under-19 captain Setareki Radrodrolagi’s belief never wavered, even after his side suffered its only defeat of the Southern Zone Secondary Schools Rugby competition to Nasinu Secondary School in round six.
That confidence was rewarded yesterday as Radrodrolagi led Grammar to a thrilling 25-19 victory over Nasinu in the U19 final, completing a remarkable turnaround and reclaiming the Southern Zone title.
The right deadlocks, who hails from Navucini in Naitasiri and has maternal links to Nakasaleka, Lagalevu in Kadavu, said the round-six loss became the motivation the team needed heading into the knockout stages.
“We lost to Nasinu in round six, but I told the boys to regroup because we would meet them again in the final,” Radrodrolagi said.
“We just had to reset, stay focused and believe in ourselves.”
His prediction came true as Grammar produced a determined performance to deny Nasinu the title in one of the most anticipated finals of the day.
Radrodrolagi said the team’s focus now shifts to the Vodafone Deans competition, where they hope to continue their winning momentum.
“We’re not going there just to participate. We’re going there to compete,” he said.
The captain admitted the victory was especially meaningful because Suva Grammar had not enjoyed the same level of dominance in the U19 grade over the past few years.
“This means a lot to us. Grammar has always had a proud rugby tradition and we’re happy to bring the Southern Zone title back to the school,” he said.
He also praised his teammates for their resilience throughout the campaign, saying every player contributed to the team’s success after bouncing back from the disappointment of their earlier defeat.
Radrodrolagi dedicated the championship to former teammate Paolo Bonolangi, who is currently in France, and to his coach for their guidance, encouragement and unwavering belief in the squad throughout the season.
The remaining finals also produced exciting contests across the grades. The U14 final between Suva Grammar 20-10 againts Marist Brothers High School, while Grammar claimed the U15 title with a 24-17 win over Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School.
MGM defeated Nasinu Secondary School 19-12 to win the U16 boys’ title, and Grammar edged Gospel High School 23-22 in the U17 final. In the Weet-Bix Raluve competition, Nasinu defeated Suva Grammar 15-12, while Lomary Secondary School defeated Mahatma Gandhi Memorial High School 18-0 to secure the U18 title.
