After a long wait of 12 years, the Nasinu Secondary School Under-18 rugby team has advanced beyond the Vodafone Deans Trophy quarterfinals. Coach Semisi Yasiyasi remarked that the last time they achieved this milestone was in 2012.
This Saturday, the Southern Zone champions will compete against Cuvu College in the Deans Trophy semifinal, scheduled to take place at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. They secured their spot by defeating Tailevu North College with a close score of 17-13 in the quarterfinals.
Yasiyasi expressed pride in the team’s accomplishment, attributing their success to hard work and dedication. He noted that the players have made significant sacrifices and while they are confident, they are also maintaining a sense of humility.
He emphasized that they would be up against a strong opponent in Cuvu College, who recently achieved a surprising victory over Ratu Kadavulevu School with a score of 23-22. Yasiyasi mentioned that this week would be dedicated to refining certain aspects of their game.
Over the years, Nasinu Secondary School has produced numerous elite rugby players, including Lemeki Koroi, Setareki Tawake, former France winger Virimi Vakatawa, Sakeo Raloa, and current Wallabies winger Marika Koroibete. Yasiyasi has urged former students, parents, and guardians to rally their support for the team’s upcoming semifinal match.