The Senivalati Vunibola Nakorosule Invitational 7s tournament took place on Friday at the Nakorosule District School grounds in Naitasiri, showcasing local rugby talent and fostering community spirit. This one-day event honors former rugby sevens player Senivalati Vunibola, who gained recognition as the oldest player to debut in the World Sevens Series at the Gold Coast Sevens in 2011. Vunibola was present at the tournament, where he expressed gratitude not only for the opportunity to support young athletes but also for being recognized through the event named in his honor.

During the event, Vunibola emphasized the hard work of the participating youth, stating, “I would like to thank all the players that are here this afternoon as the youths work hard to attain a bigger and better result.” His presence was particularly motivational for many young players, some of whom were experiencing a live game featuring him for the first time.

Erami Raileqe, president of the Kaite Rugby Club, played a pivotal role in organizing the tournament and shared his admiration for Vunibola, reminiscing about how he had followed Vunibola’s career passionately. This reflects the lasting positive impact that Vunibola’s career had on aspiring players within the community.

The tournament served as a significant platform not just for rugby but for highlighting the positive contributions of sports in youth development and community cohesion. Similar initiatives, like the Vatukoro under-19 team, further illustrate how rugby can instill valuable life skills such as discipline and teamwork among young players.

In summary, the Senivalati Vunibola Nakorosule Invitational 7s tournament not only celebrated rugby but also reinforced community bonds and showcased the transformative power of athletic involvement. With continued support for such initiatives, there is hope for the ongoing development of youth talent and character in the region, promising a brighter future for aspiring athletes.