The Lami High School Under-19 rugby team remained unfazed by criticisms and allegations as they competed in the Vodafone Deans Trophy finals. Head coach Beniamino Kakaivalu shared this insight after the team secured a narrow victory over Queen Victoria School, winning 20-19 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Kakaivalu noted that the players avoided social media, allowing them to concentrate on their performance and shield themselves from negativity. He emphasized that the triumph represents the beginning of a larger vision, with plans to field an Under-18 team next year to contend for further accolades.
Reflecting on their journey, Kakaivalu acknowledged the challenges the team faced, including traveling to Vanua Levu for national qualifiers. They first defeated Dreketi Central College 24-21, then moved on to the national quarterfinals where they surprised Ratu Kadavulevu School with an 11-5 victory and later triumphed over Ratu Navula College 13-10 in the semifinals.
Kakaivalu encouraged his players, reminding them that the reputation of their rival school should not intimidate them. Their determination was evident in their gameplay today.