Nasinu Secondary School is experiencing a revival as its under-18 rugby team has ended an 11-year drought in the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union Vodafone Super Deans competition. The last time Nasinu reached the grand final was in 2012, after which the team consistently fell short in the quarter-finals.
Last Saturday, the current team secured their place in the semi-finals by overcoming Tailevu North College in a challenging match. Head coach Mika Yasiyasi expressed optimism, stating, “A new sun is rising for Nasinu.”
Nasinu stands out as the sole representative from the Southern Zone in the U18 semi-finals. Yasiyasi noted that previously, the goal was simply to reach the quarter-finals, but they are now aiming to rewrite the narrative for their school. He emphasized that breaking the quarter-final barrier after so many years is a significant achievement.
However, they face a tough challenge ahead against Cuvu College, a team that has a history of success, having reached the finals in 2018. Yasiyasi understands the need for his players to give their all for the entire match duration, saying, “We need to play 70-minute rugby.”
He acknowledged that Tailevu North put pressure on them during the quarter-finals, and improvements in handling such challenges are essential for the semi-finals. The team has been concentrating on fitness, body conditioning, and communication to enhance their game management.
The semi-finals will take place at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, with Nasinu facing Cuvu College first at 3:25 PM, followed by the match between Ratu Navula College and Queen Victoria School at 5 PM.