BA Methodist High School is poised to showcase a formidable Under-18 team in the upcoming Deans rugby competition, thanks in part to the recently established Ba Rugby Union Youth Academy at the school. This initiative, launched this year, aims to enhance the development of junior players in the Ba region and has already started to positively influence the school’s rugby program.
U18 coach Ioana Lewatiakana expressed optimism for the Deans competition, noting the encouraging early signs marked by the team’s recent victory against Eastern Saints U18 over the weekend. Lewatiakana highlighted the players’ remarkable discipline and commitment, which was evident even with just a week of preparation before the match.
The academy currently boasts an extended squad of 32 players, with 20 of those training under the academy program at Ba Methodist. Players are making significant efforts to join the setup, with some traveling from places as distant as Tavua and Nadi to be part of this promising program.
Lewatiakana emphasized that the academy provides a solid foundation for young athletes to thrive under expert guidance, which is expected to yield long-term benefits for both Ba Rugby and Ba Methodist High School. Reflecting on the team’s prospects in the Deans competition, he confidently predicted a strong showing this season, bolstered by the depth of talent and the structured support from the academy.
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