The Fijian Drua is thrilled to announce that two promising players from its academy, Seremaia Salikoro and Sefanaia Naqama, have secured scholarships to the esteemed Tauranga Boys College in New Zealand. This achievement is a significant milestone, made possible through a strategic partnership established between the Drua and the college.
Salikoro, hailing from Natabua High School, will benefit from a three-year scholarship, while Naqama, a student at Sila Central High School in Nausori, will attend the college for two years. Their talents were recognized by Regan Ward, the First XV coach at Tauranga Boys College, along with Senior Rugby coordinator Aidan Kuka, who spent a week with the Drua and identified the two young athletes as ideal candidates.
Baden Stephenson, the general manager of Fijian Drua, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing that it would be a transformative experience for the young players. “Salikoro and Naqama, both 16 years old, will receive a top-notch education, immerse themselves in a new culture, and thrive in an elite rugby setting,” he stated. He also noted that the players would return to the Drua after their scholarship period.
The Drua management intends to ensure that both scholars continue to develop their rugby skills alongside their educational pursuits during their time in New Zealand. Stephenson highlighted the strong alignment of values between the two organizations, focusing on nurturing well-rounded individuals both on and off the field.
Kuka shared his excitement about the partnership, reiterating Tauranga Boys College’s commitment to transforming ordinary boys into extraordinary men and their eagerness to welcome Salikoro and Naqama to their institution in 2025.
This initiative not only highlights the talent coming from Fiji but also underscores the importance of global collaboration in sports and education. With such opportunities, young athletes like Salikoro and Naqama have the chance to achieve their dreams in rugby while receiving a quality education that will support their future endeavors.
In summary, the partnership between Fijian Drua and Tauranga Boys College opens doors for exceptional young talent, setting a positive precedent for future collaborations that will enrich the lives of aspiring athletes.
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