The recent passing out parade at Queen Victoria School (QVS) highlighted the remarkable achievements of Andrew Lal, an 18-year-old Year 13 student. Lal stood out among his peers with his discipline and confidence, showcasing the values instilled in him through his experiences at QVS. As a kai Mokoisa from Ravitaki, Kadavu, Lal is preparing to represent his school in the prestigious Vodafone Deans Under-18 final against Ratu Kadavulevu School (RKS) tomorrow at the Nukuvuto ground.
QVS has a stellar reputation in rugby, having won the Deans Trophy for three consecutive years and now aiming for a fourth victory. Lal shared that this opportunity to play is not just about personal achievement but also about continuing his family’s legacy, following in the footsteps of his older brother, Edwin, who played for QVS in the Deans competition last year.
The Lal brothers draw inspiration from their maternal ties to the same village as former Flying Fijians player Leone Nakarawa, who continues to shine in French rugby at the age of 38. Reflecting on his cadet training experience, Lal spoke about the challenges of learning military discipline but emphasized his commitment and the spirit of unity fostered at QVS, where students from diverse backgrounds come together as one.
Lal is also keenly aware of the lessons learned beyond the drill. He noted that the training has equipped him with essential life skills such as teamwork, self-belief, and discipline, values that he intends to carry with him for life.
In a similar vein, QVS has fostered a culture where discipline plays a crucial role in the overall learning experience, with school representatives emphasizing a safe environment that supports the development of all students. The camaraderie and shared experiences at QVS not only prepare students for competition on the field but also for challenges beyond school.
The positive environment and strong support system at QVS are instrumental in cultivating not only champions in sports but also well-rounded individuals ready to face the future with confidence. As student athletes like Lal prepare for significant matches like the Deans final, they exemplify hope and determination, reflecting the shared aspirations of many young people striving for excellence in both academics and sports.
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