After a 12-year wait, the Nasinu Secondary School Under-18 rugby team has reached the semifinals of the Vodafone Deans Trophy, breaking past the quarterfinal stage for the first time since 2012. Under the guidance of coach Semisi Yasiyasi, the team, which earned the title of Southern Zone champions, will compete against Cuvu College this Saturday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Nasinu secured their place in the semifinals by narrowly defeating Tailevu North College 17-13.
Yasiyasi expressed pride in the team’s achievements, attributing their success to hard work and dedication. He emphasized that while the players remain confident, they also choose to stay humble in their approach. The upcoming match will be challenging, as they are set to face a strong opponent in Cuvu College, who recently pulled off a surprising victory against Ratu Kadavulevu School with a score of 23-22.
To enhance their game, Yasiyasi indicated that the team would focus on refining specific areas in preparation for the semifinal. Over the years, Nasinu Secondary School has produced several notable rugby talents, including Lemeki Koroi, Setareki Tawake, former France winger Virimi Vakatawa, Sakeo Raloa, and current Wallabies winger Marika Koroibete. Yasiyasi has also reached out to former students, parents, and guardians to rally support for the team’s crucial upcoming match.