The recent Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s tournament saw the disqualification of the Viwa rugby men’s team after it was discovered that most of its players were from the national squad. The decision was made by tournament director Jeff Tamata shortly after the team departed Prince Charles Park. Tamata emphasized the need to protect the integrity of grassroots rugby, stating that the presence of national players could undermine the competition’s fairness, particularly for the local teams participating in the event.
“Our priority is the development of grassroots clubs in Fiji,” Tamata explained, ensuring that the focus remains on providing equal opportunities for all teams. He pointed out that if Viwa were to win the tournament, it would not be perceived as a legitimate victory since they did not represent their community authentically.
This year’s Nawaka 7s features a record number of 104 teams participating over three days, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for rugby across Fiji. The tournament serves as a crucial platform for fostering local talent and community spirit, uniting fans and players in a celebration of the sport. As the tournament wraps up, there is hope that the focus on grassroots development will inspire future generations of athletes in the region.
In essence, while disqualification may have caused disappointment for some, it reinforces a commitment to nurturing local talent and maintaining fair play in the sport. The vibrant atmosphere of the Nawaka 7s continues to showcase the significant role rugby plays in Fijian culture and community cohesion.
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