After a 12-year wait, the Nasinu Secondary School Under-18 rugby team has advanced past the Vodafone Deans Trophy quarterfinals. Coach Semisi Yasiyasi noted that the last time the team reached this stage was in 2012.
This Saturday, the Southern Zone champions will compete against Cuvu College in the Deans Trophy semifinal at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. They secured their place in the semifinals by defeating Tailevu North College with a score of 17-13 in the quarterfinal match.
Yasiyasi praised the team’s hard work and dedication that has led them to this point. He emphasized that, similar to other teams, the players have made sacrifices and, while they are confident, they choose to remain humble.
The coach acknowledged the challenge posed by their upcoming opponent, Cuvu College, which recently triumphed over Ratu Kadavulevu School with a close score of 23-22.
“This week, we will focus on refining areas of our game that need improvement,” Yasiyasi stated.
Over the years, Nasinu Secondary School has produced notable rugby talent, including players like Lemeki Koroi, Setareki Tawake, former France winger Virimi Vakatawa, Sakeo Raloa, and current Wallabies winger Marika Koroibete.
Yasiyasi has reached out to former students of Nasinu Secondary School, as well as parents and guardians, to rally support for the team in their semifinal match.