The registration period for the Namaka Sevens and Volleyball Tournament has been officially extended. This change follows a rescheduling of the tournament, which will now take place at Namaka Public School in Nadi, with volleyball set for January 17-18 and rugby sevens on January 24-25. The decision was made to avoid overlaps with the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s occurring next week at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka.
Tournament coordinator Biu Tadranu reported that half of the required teams have already signed up since the launch event last Friday. The volleyball tournament will feature three categories, accommodating 24 men’s teams and 10 women’s teams, while aiming for 16 teams in the mixed category. Six volleyball courts will be available for play.
The rugby sevens competition will include only senior categories for men and women, aiming for approximately 24 men’s teams and eight women’s teams. Interest has been expressed for an under-20 category, although it is not yet confirmed. In total, around 53 men’s matches and 23 women’s matches are anticipated during the event.
This will mark the inaugural hosting of the Namaka Volleyball and Rugby Sevens Tournament, which Tadranu describes as a significant sporting festival. The visual identity of the event incorporates an airplane logo, symbolizing Nadi’s connection to the tourism sector. The initiative seeks to attract teams from both local and international backgrounds, aiming to create a platform for youth to showcase their talents.
Tadranu highlighted the enthusiasm shown by various local volleyball clubs, as well as rugby teams like Airport Rugby and Sabeto Rugby. The head teacher of Namaka Public School, Arvin Kumar, expressed excitement about the tournament’s impact on the community, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in bringing people together and fostering school spirit.
Co-hosted by West Event Fiji and the Waqadra Brothers Community, the tournament’s registration fees have been set: $500 for men’s rugby, $400 for women’s rugby, $300 for men’s volleyball, $200 for women’s volleyball, and $250 for mixed teams. The prize money includes $5,000 for the men’s rugby champion, $2,500 for the women’s rugby victor, $2,000 for the men’s volleyball winner, $1,000 for the women’s volleyball champion, and $1,500 for the mixed team victor.
This tournament promises to be a great opportunity for participants to engage with their community and enjoy a spirited competition, fostering camaraderie and showcasing local talent.
In summary, the Namaka Sevens and Volleyball Tournament stands as a promising event that not only encourages athletic participation but also strengthens community ties and provides a platform for youth development.
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