Nemani Nadolo, Fiji’s rugby great, has publicly backed Natabua High School to win this year’s Vodafone Deans Trophy as the competition intensifies toward the semi-finals. The former Flying Fijians powerhouse, born in Sigatoka, praised Natabua’s grit, power, and discipline and said he sees them as the team that can upset the form. Nadolo noted Natabua’s commanding quarter-final win over Marist Brothers High School as a key indicator of their potential to go all the way.
“I may not have gone to school there, but I’d love to see Natabua from Lautoka lift the trophy. I’m backing them. It’d be great to see an underdog come out on top,” Nadolo said, underscoring his belief in Natabua’s forwards pack and their sharp game understanding, which he believes could give them the edge in the semi-finals.
Nadolo is slated to be in the stands this Saturday when Natabua faces Nasinu Secondary School at 3:30 pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. The 2025 Vodafone Deans and Weet-Bix Raluve semifinals will be spread across HFC Bank Stadium, Buckhurst Park, and Bidesi Ground, with several matches broadcast live on FBC Sports and FBC 2. Overseas viewers can watch via Vitiplus for 59 FJD.
Natabua’s campaign has drawn support from a line of former players who continue to give back to Fiji’s school rugby. Esala Nauga, a former Flying Fijians center and Natabua High School coach, has been in Natabua’s corner, alongside other alumni such as Setefano Samoca and Tiko Matawalu, who remain involved with the sport in Fiji. The collaboration between current players and these veterans is highlighted as a positive signal for the sport’s development pipeline.
Nasinu Secondary School, meanwhile, arrive in the semi-finals with their own credentials and a notable resurgence within Fiji’s school rugby scene, aided in part by guidance from former national players who have supported Nasinu throughout the season. Natabua captain Suliasi Totopo has called on supporters to come out in force, emphasizing the Western Division’s backing as a morale booster for his side.
What to watch this weekend
– The Natabua-Nasinu semi-final could hinge on Natabua’s disciplined defense and forward power, tested by Nasinu’s speed and finishing ability.
– The broader Deans and Raluve weekend showcases Fiji’s deep pool of young talent and the growing involvement of former internationals in coaching and mentorship.
– Fans can follow live coverage on FBC Sports and FBC 2, with Vitiplus offering overseas viewing at 59 FJD.
Summary
The Deans Trophy semi-finals highlight the strength and depth of Fiji’s school rugby, with Natabua High School and Nasinu Secondary School delivering compelling proof of the sport’s healthy development. Nadolo’s public backing adds a high-profile spotlight on Natabua’s bid to defend their title, while former players continue to shape the next generation, underscoring a hopeful trajectory for Fiji’s youth rugby.
Editor’s note
The weekend figures show how alumni engagement, strong local support, and national broadcasts are elevating school rugby, helping players transition to higher levels and strengthening community pride across Fiji. Positive momentum across multiple programs bodes well for the sport’s future in the region.
Leave a comment