The Senivalati Vunibola Nakorosule Invitational 7s tournament took place at the Nakorosule District School grounds in Naitasiri on Friday, showcasing the talents of local youth and fostering community spirit. This one-day event honors former rugby sevens player Senivalati Vunibola, recognized in 2011 as the oldest player in the World Sevens Series during his debut at the Gold Coast Sevens. Vunibola was present at the tournament, where he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to support the development of young athletes.

Vunibola shared his appreciation for the dedication and hard work of the youth participating in the event, stating, “I would like to thank all the players that are here this afternoon as the youths work hard to attain a bigger and better result.” His attendance served as an inspiration for many young players, some of whom were seeing him live for the first time.

Erami Raileqe, president of the Kaite Rugby Club and a key figure in organizing the tournament, echoed Vunibola’s sentiments, emphasizing the impact of sports on personal growth. He recalled how he closely followed Vunibola’s career, highlighting the enduring legacy of the athlete within the community.

The tournament’s significance extends beyond just rugby; it reinforces the message about the positive role of sports in youth development and community cohesion. Similar events, like the Vatukoro under-19 team, illustrate how rugby can instill discipline and teamwork among participants, creating a supportive environment that encourages personal and athletic growth.

In summary, the Senivalati Vunibola Nakorosule Invitational 7s not only celebrated the sport of rugby but also emphasized community bonds and the transformative power of athletic involvement. With ongoing support for such initiatives, there is a hopeful future for nurturing talent and character among young athletes in the region.