The criticisms and allegations directed at the Lami High School Under-19 rugby team during the Vodafone Deans Trophy finals did not impact the players’ performance. Head coach Beniamino Kakaivalu shared this insight following their narrow 20-19 victory over Queen Victoria School at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium.
“The boys were on social media blackout,” Kakaivalu explained when asked how the team managed to stay focused amid the controversy. “This approach allowed them to concentrate on their game and eliminate any negative influences.”
Kakaivalu emphasized that this win is just the beginning of a larger objective. “We are eager to assemble an Under-18 team next year to compete for more titles,” he stated.
Reflecting on their journey, the former Suva rugby winger noted the challenges faced along the way, including travel to Vanua Levu for the national qualifiers. They secured a spot in the national quarterfinals by defeating Dreketi Central College 24-21, then upset Ratu Kadavulevu School 11-5 and Ratu Navula College 13-10 in the semifinals.
“When we faced Ratu Kadavulevu School, I reminded the boys that it was merely the name of the school that mattered. Our players gave their all, and that determination was clear in today’s match,” Kakaivalu added.