The registration period for the Namaka Sevens and Volleyball Tournament has been extended following a rescheduling of the event dates. The volleyball games are now set for January 17-18, while the rugby sevens will take place on January 24-25 at the Namaka Public School in Nadi.
Tournament coordinator, Biu Tadranu, explained that the schedule was adjusted to prevent a clash with the upcoming McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka. Since the tournament launch last Friday, approximately half of the participating teams have already signed up.
The volleyball tournament aims to feature three categories, with 24 men’s and 10 women’s teams expected to participate, while the target for mixed teams is 16. Organizers plan to set up six volleyball courts for the event. Regarding rugby sevens, only senior men’s and women’s teams will be included, with aspirations of attracting 24 men’s teams and eight women’s teams. Though an Under-20 category has generated interest, it is not yet confirmed.
The Namaka Public School will host this inaugural tournament, which Tadranu describes as a unique sports festival showcasing the region’s cultural and tourism attributes. The initiative hopes to provide young athletes with a platform to display their skills, with the ultimate goal of establishing this as an annual event.
Several teams have already registered, including clubs from various sectors, such as volleyball teams from Raiwai Eagles and Tanoa International Hotel and rugby teams from the Airport rugby club and Sabeto rugby.
The head teacher of Namaka Public School, Arvin Kumar, expressed excitement about the tournament, emphasizing the importance of community partnership in fostering school spirit and visibility.
The tournament is being organized in collaboration with West Event Fiji and the Waqadra Brothers Community, and registration fees have been outlined for both tournaments. Prize money for the winners has also been detailed, with $5000 awarded to the men’s rugby winner and $2000 for the men’s volleyball winner, among other prizes.
This festive sporting event not only aims to showcase local talent but also seeks to strengthen community bonds and encourage youth participation in athletics. It presents a great opportunity for local teams to engage in friendly competition while highlighting the talents within the region.
Overall, the Namaka Sevens and Volleyball Tournament promises to be a vibrant celebration of sports, community, and youth engagement in the Nadi region.
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