Sport has long given young people something to hold onto a space to grow, to learn and to stay focused.
In Fiji, rugby continues to be one of the most powerful tools for shaping young lives.
That’s the goal behind the first-ever Bula Brothers Rugby 7s tournament, to offer young people hope, direction and a stronger sense of purpose through the sport they love.
The tournament will be held on July 25–26 at Thomson Park in Navua and is being organised by the Bula Brothers club, which was formed in 2021.
Tournament coordinator Ratu Jone Pio Macanawai said the event is designed to create opportunities for young people, especially those facing the daily risks of drug use and other challenges.
“This is more than just a rugby tournament,” he said.
“We want to use this platform to guide youths back onto the right path. It’s about giving them something to be part of.”
He said part of the funds raised from the event will go towards helping their club team travel to Sydney, Australia, for a tournament on October 4–5.
They attended a similar tournament earlier this year but were not properly prepared.
“Nothing was planned well back then. The boys didn’t have the gear they needed and most of them are from the village. This time we want to do things right,” he said.
The tournament will feature 48 men’s teams and 12 women’s teams.
Only four spots remain open.
Top local sides confirmed include the Viti Roofing Devo Babas, champions of the 2024–2025 Fiji Bitter 7s Series, along with the Police and Wardens Gold teams.
Kasabias is the tournament sponsor.
The men’s winners will walk away with $5000 and runners-up with $2500.
The women’s winners will earn $1000, with $500 for the runners-up.
Macanawai is encouraging the Namosi community to show their support.
“Come out and cheer. You never know, your support might be the turning point for one of these young boys.”
