Moce Secondary School triumphed over Cicia High School, winning by 48 runs in the 2024 Fiji Secondary School National Men’s U19 Cricket Tournament held in Suva. As they celebrated their victory and claimed the title of secondary school cricket champions, several players from the team were honored with selections to join the Fiji national team.
According to a government announcement, eight players from Moce Secondary School have been chosen to participate in an upcoming cricket tournament in Japan. In the same tournament, Suva Grammar School achieved victory against Ratu Finau Secondary School by five wickets, securing third place.
Following their win, the Moce team paid a visit to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere at his residence, where he celebrated their achievement. He encouraged the young athletes to aim for contracts with international cricket franchises and commended their accomplishments, urging them to pursue even greater aspirations.
He noted that students from rural areas often come to Suva with their ambitions, and the team’s recent success exemplified their potential. “You have just proved that last week when you outplayed your opponents and made your school and the vanua Delaimakotu proud,” he remarked, emphasizing the inspirational impact of their achievements on other students and aspiring cricketers.
Ratu Wiliame highlighted the revival of cricket on the mainland and encouraged the students to advocate for the sport in their home communities. He pointed out that cricket is a profitable sport globally, stressing that it is the players’ responsibility to chase their dreams and excel in their pursuits.
He challenged the players to develop their skills, aiming to become exemplary batsmen, fielders, and wicketkeepers. Ratu Wiliame expressed his hope that one day, one of them would secure a contract with an overseas cricket club, and he looked forward to hearing about their success during his retirement back in Macuata.
The President also expressed his gratitude to the vanua Delaimakotu, along with the parents, teachers, and fellow students of Moce Secondary School, for their invaluable support to the cricket team.