The St Teresa Naba team showcased their determination and spirit at the Fiji Bitter Wairiki 7s tournament in Taveuni, competing without formal sponsorship and relying solely on fundraising efforts. Team manager Sefanaia Vakaloloma shared that the journey began with a desire to represent their vanua, despite the challenges faced in organizing a team. “This year there was no team, but at one point we did have a well-known team, so we decided to form one to represent the vanua,” he explained.
The players prepared for the tournament, welcoming newcomers eager to join and contribute to the team’s aspirations. Vakaloloma emphasized that the unwavering support from family and the local community has been fundamental to their journey.
Throughout the tournament, the St Teresa Naba team’s performance was varied. They secured a win by default in their first pool match against Davetalevu, followed by a close loss to Supercool Vatukoro (7-12) and a scoreless draw with Naselesele. However, they bounced back with a thrilling 14-12 victory over Sausauvou Taveuni, demonstrating their resilience and determination.
Overall, the journey of St Teresa Naba not only reflects the passion for rugby but also the values of community support and perseverance. As they compete in the tournament, their story serves to inspire others about the power of working together towards a common goal.
This narrative exemplifies the spirit of sport beyond just competition; it highlights the dedication and unity of the community, which is essential for any team striving for success.
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