Located approximately two hours’ drive from Sigatoka Town, Bemana village in Navosa is reigniting its passion for sports with the revival of the Heni-Ivi Netball and Rugby Club. After years of competitive silence, this club is providing young villagers an opportunity to engage in sports, compete, and represent their community once more.
In the recent FMF Navosa Netball and Rugby 7s competition, both the Heni-Ivi netball and rugby teams reached the semi-finals, marking a significant milestone for a club still in the process of re-establishing itself. While neither team advanced to the finals, their impressive performances sent a clear message: Bemana is back on the sporting map.
The netball team fell short of the final, losing narrowly to Qwalimavua with a score of 9-7, while the rugby team experienced a heartbreaking defeat against Corika, losing 15-14 in their semi-final match. For Vani Narabe, the netball manager, the outcome was less significant than what the team’s existence symbolizes. The Heni-Ivi netball club, revived after two decades, aims to enhance the standard of netball in the village and provide a platform for young girls to shine.
Despite facing challenges such as limited coaching resources, Narabe emphasized the team’s dedication to training and their efforts on the court. The squad comprises entirely village girls, many of whom are students at St Teresa College in Bemana, including younger players still in Year 8.
“Our aim is to elevate this club and showcase the young talent we have here,” she remarked.
On the other hand, the rugby side, managed by Basilio Livono, is also on a revival journey after a five-year hiatus. Formerly known as Seniivi Rugby Club, they have been reborn as Heni-Ivi, focusing on youth development. The current squad primarily consists of Under-20 players from Natabua High School, Ratu Kadavulevu School, and St Teresa College in Bemana.
The FMF Navosa 7s tournament marked only their second outing as a team, following their initial appearance at the Nabua 7s a few weeks prior. They are now gearing up for their next challenge at the Yasawa 7s scheduled for next week.
Although the semi-final defeats were disappointing, Livono expressed that the gained experience is invaluable for the team’s growth. For Bemana, the revival of the Heni-Ivi Netball and Rugby Club transcends mere victories; it is about providing direction to the youth, rebuilding community pride, and demonstrating that talent and determination can thrive even from the heart of Navosa.
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