The Lami High School Under-19 rugby team remained unfazed by the criticisms and allegations directed at them during the Vodafone Deans Trophy finals. Head coach Beniamino Kakaivalu shared this insight with SUNsports after their narrow victory against Queen Victoria School, winning 20-19 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
“The boys were on a social media blackout,” Kakaivalu explained when discussing how the team managed to stay focused amidst the negative noise. He emphasized that this strategy allowed the players to concentrate on their game while shielding them from negativity.
Kakaivalu sees this victory as the foundation for a broader plan. “We are looking forward to fielding an Under-18 side next year to compete for the silverware,” he added.
Reflecting on their journey, Kakaivalu, a former Suva rugby winger, noted the challenges faced as the team traveled to Vanua Levu for the national qualifiers. They secured a spot in the national quarterfinals after defeating Dreketi Central College 24-21 and continued their success by upsetting Ratu Kadavulevu School 11-5 and Ratu Navula College 13-10 in the semifinals.
“When we played Ratu Kadavulevu School, I reminded the boys that it was just the name of the school that carries weight. Our boys fought with all their heart, and that determination was evident today,” he remarked.