The Flame Tree Colo-i-Suva rugby team, hailing from the district of Vuna, is gearing up for an exciting debut at the upcoming Hamilton Fijian 7s tournament in New Zealand. This event is a significant milestone for the team, primarily composed of village-based players who have honed their skills through local competitions and sevens tournaments.
Team manager Laisiasa Kubu shared his insights regarding this monumental journey, highlighting that this tour is part of the long-term development of the club. “Most of these young players are villagers who have nurtured their talent through local rugby sevens and district competitions. This overseas opportunity is unprecedented for many of them, with only two players coming from the senior Naitasiri team who are part of our Vuna club,” Kubu explained.
The tournament holds special significance for the players, as it represents their first-ever trip abroad. “Most of these boys have never been on a plane before. It’s like baptism by fire for them,” Kubu noted, expressing the excitement and high morale within the squad.
Training commenced in November following their participation in the local sevens series, as the team prepared for the challenges awaiting them in Hamilton. More than just a competitive event, the tour is seen as a platform for exposure. Kubu emphasized, “The Hamilton tournament will have rugby scouts on the ground. It’s a chance for these young players to showcase their skills and potentially open doors to professional opportunities overseas.”
Reflecting on past experiences, Kubu recalled how the head coach’s previous involvement with an AFL Fiji team in Australia led to several players securing positions after gaining similar exposure. He further remarked on the pivotal role rugby plays in community development and youth engagement within the district.
The team’s aspirations for the tournament are centered around gaining exposure and providing players with a chance to demonstrate their rugby talents to attending scouts. The special journey is made possible thanks to the support of former club members now living in New Zealand, local businesses, and the wider community. As they prepare to represent their village on the international stage, the Flame Tree team carries with them a banner symbolizing hope and opportunity for both their community and beyond.
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