Last Saturday, the town of Lami came together to celebrate the victory of the Lami High School U19 rugby team, despite the morning drizzle. The community marched from RB Patel Harbour Point along the Queen’s Highway and up Lami Village Road to the school.
What began as a parade of over 50 people grew as it progressed through the village. Residents of all ages, draped in Lami’s colors, joined in to support the team. Women danced joyfully in their traditional attire, creating an atmosphere of celebration that will be remembered for years to come. Turaga na taukei Vuo Kolinio Nakarawa, who officiated the event, remarked that a new era has begun for Lami.
“Thank you for this tremendous achievement,” he expressed to both the school management and the U19 rugby team. He encouraged everyone to look around at the unity present that day, highlighting the pride and togetherness the victory inspired.
Alumni traveled from as far as Vatukoula to participate in the festivities. School principal Naisa Cama expressed her optimism, stating, “Good things are going to happen for Lami. This is just the beginning of better things to come.”
Notably, former students from the 1960s and 1970s also joined in the celebration, sharing the same level of excitement. Vereti Dumaru, vice-president of the Lami High School Old Scholars, noted how they once hesitated to wear their school uniform in public but now embrace it with pride.
Each player received an envelope and a certificate to commemorate their achievements and contributions. The rugby team faced numerous challenges entering the competition but emerged victorious. Dumaru emphasized that their story will be cherished and recalled fondly in the future. “You are now champions, but we will always remember you as the giantslayers,” he added.