TE Puke Intermediate Rugby Academy from New Zealand has arrived in Suva, Fiji, on a quest to discover young rugby talent, presenting an exciting prospect for local players. A two-day trial is underway at Bidesi ground, engaging around fifty boys from various schools on the first day, with more young athletes expected to participate today.
Since 2016, the academy has been on a mission to scout Fijian talent, intending to award two scholarships. These scholarships will provide selected players with the chance to train and study in New Zealand for six months, benefiting from rich rugby training while also immersing themselves in the local culture. Darren Harvey, the head of the academy, emphasized the distinctive attributes of Fijian players, such as their speed, flair, and natural ability for offloading. “We’re not looking for big, strong players; we have that in New Zealand already. What we want is the Fijian flair that sets these boys apart,” he remarked.
Those who are selected will receive extensive rugby development opportunities, with the chance to engage in New Zealand’s club rugby scene and compete in the renowned 2025 Zespri AIMS Games. Previous scholarship recipients, like Simione Rarasea from Marist Brothers Primary and Josese Vakataki, who now plays for Wellington’s Scots College, showcase the pathway to success that these scholarships can provide. Although the academy does not guarantee high school scholarships, it often attracts the attention of New Zealand’s educational institutions towards talented players.
This initiative reflects the growing efforts within Fiji’s rugby ecosystem, akin to recent efforts like the establishment of the Fijian Drua Academy, which is also dedicated to nurturing young talent. Both academies symbolize a hopeful future for Fijian rugby by providing structured training programs that inspire young athletes to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams on an international scale.
As the trials continue today, the chance for two players to earn what could be a transformative opportunity reinforces the belief in the enduring brilliance of Fijian rugby talent. This collaboration between New Zealand and Fiji emphasizes the promising future and growth potential within rugby, presenting a bright outlook for the sport in the region.
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