Lami High School has made a triumphant return to the national quarter-finals of the Vodafone Super Deans after a 14-year absence. The under-19 team qualified as the third-seeded representative from the Southern Zone, finishing behind Naitasiri Secondary School and Nasinu Secondary School.
The last time Lami High reached this level was in 2010, during which the Deans trophy was won by Lelean Memorial School. Recent changes in leadership at the school, previously known as Lami Fijian School, have unveiled significant talent, particularly among students in vocational studies, helping the team to overcome obstacles and end a lengthy drought in their performances.
Team manager Adilina Motea expressed pride in the team’s efforts, reflecting on the impact of the same grade that made significant strides for the school in 2010. “These boys worked hard all season to take us back to this level,” she said. “Our new principal, Naisa Cama Toko, has been very supportive of our vision for holistic development. We recognize that sports can be a career that benefits many families in Fiji, and our principal emphasizes this perspective, knowing that many of these kids can excel in sports.”
The team enjoys robust support from students, alumni, and families who unite to encourage the team’s success. Motea extended gratitude to the Nasevou and Nakurukuru clans from the village of Lami for their significant contribution to the team’s efforts. “Seeing their school achieve this level is a source of pride for them, serving as motivation for these boys to push further,” she added.
The road ahead is challenging as Lami High faces defending champions Ratu Kadavulevu School on Saturday. Motea acknowledged the respect held for RKS while asserting her team’s readiness. “God is the pillar of this team. We have immense respect for RKS, but our team will be prepared.”
Lami High will compete against RKS in the first U19 quarter-final on Saturday at 1:20 PM at Buckhurst Park in Laucala Bay, Suva.