There are many different ways sports teams draw their strength from during a major contest.
For the Fiji Police Force rugby team, it will be the solidarity and euphonic of the chant ’88’ or ‘waluwalu’ that echoes across the ANZ Stadium in Suva tomorrow that will rally the men to try and successfully defend the FMF Ratu Sukuna Bowl title.
But where did it all begin?
“When any police officer hears the number 88, it reminds them of one thing and that is Barrack 88 in Nasova,” said former Ratu Sukuna Bowl and now Police development rugby coach Solo Nute.
“Barrack 88 is synonymous with the basic recruits course.
“It is a reminder of hardships, the blood, sweat and tears that every police officer has given and faced on the road to become a police officer.”
That same figure, Nute said had been transformed and used as a source of firepower in many a rugby match since the late Rupeni Ravonu’s tenure with the Police rugby team.
“Eight players in a forward pack, when the challenge is given ‘walu’ or ‘waluwalu,’ it means we have to give all the energy we have.
“The numbers will no doubt be a rallying point again tomorrow.”
Meanwhile, Army Rugby Club president Humphrey Tawake said there would be a new champion crowned during the challenge on Friday.
“For the RFMF, on the day I can guarantee you that there will be a new champion,” he said.
“Whether win or lose, we will all win irrespective of the result on the day.”
The FMF Ratu SukunaBowl challenge starts with the arrival of teams at 8am tomorrow.
Competition proper starts with the netball fixtures at the Fiji Sports Council’s National Netball Centre at Laucala Bay.
The main rugby match starts is scheduled to start at 4pm.
