THE reigning John Ian Sanday Challenge Trophy holders continue to defend their title in every challenge with the same determination that has carried them through an unbeaten title defence.
In the Northland Rugby Union competition, Waidalice Rugby Union has emerged as the team everyone wants to beat.
Captain Niko Rasei says the squad has embraced the responsibility and is preparing just as hard for its next defence as it did for its first.
“We’re physically fit and ready for the next challenge,” Rasei said.
The champions will put their trophy on the line again this Saturday against Mosquito Rugby Club from Wainibuka.
Having already overcome earlier challengers, Waidalice knows there is no room for complacency with a queue of hungry teams still waiting for their opportunity.
The John Ian Sanday Challenge Trophy has already changed hands several times in recent seasons.
Seinibau Rugby Club was the inaugural holder before Nakorowaiwai of Wainibuka claimed it.
Namalata Rugby Club later took the trophy from Nakorowaiwai before losing it from Waidalice, while Kula from Naitutu village also had its turn to challenge but failed.
Now it sits proudly with Waidalice, who are determined to keep it that way.
Behind the unbeaten run is a demanding training schedule.
The squad trains from Monday through Friday, while Wednesday nights are reserved for team camp at the Veinuqa Community Hall, where players strengthen not only their fitness but also the bond that has become one of the team’s greatest strengths.
“Our boys have shown great commitment and enthusiasm at training and on the field,” Rasei said.
“Everyone is putting in the work because we know every challenge is like a final.”
That performance reinforced the belief that the side is building momentum at the right time as challengers continue to line up.
But despite the success, life at grassroots rugby remains far from easy.
Like many rural clubs, Waidalice continues to battle financial constraints and the lack of proper gym facilities and training equipment.
Those obstacles, however, have only strengthened the team’s resolve.
Rasei said the team’s achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the Waidalice Church community, the vanua and Veinuqa families living overseas, whose encouragement continues to inspire the players every week.
Waidalice Rugby Club will take on the challengers, the Mosquito Rugby Team from Wainibuka this Saturday at Tailevu North College ground in Korovou at 3.45pm.
