Parents and supporters of Dawasamu Secondary School made an early start, departing their village at 5 a.m. to support their under-17 teams during the quarter-final match against Marist at Burkhurst Park in Suva yesterday. Kemuneli Vere from Delakado Dawasamu mentioned that 17 supporters made the journey together, marking a historic moment as it is the first time the under-17 team has qualified for this level of competition.
Vere highlighted that the only other team from the school to reach the significant rounds was the reigning champion of the Raluve Cup, the under-18 girls. Although there was strong support during the quarter-finals, he noted that earlier in the competition, enthusiasm was lacking.
“I follow the U17 everywhere because my son is part of the team,” Vere said. After returning from Vanualevu following the playoffs, he spoke to fellow parents about the need for greater support. He also mentioned the challenges they faced in providing meals for the players, but through collective efforts, they managed to overcome those obstacles.
Vere emphasized the importance of parental support in their children’s pursuits, stating, “I support my son in every game. Every year, I make it my effort to buy him new boots. I always advise him that this path he has taken requires hard work, and he should aim to wear the white jersey.”