After a 12-year wait, the Nasinu Secondary School Under-18 rugby team has advanced past the quarterfinals of the Vodafone Deans Trophy. Coach Semisi Yasiyasi noted that the last time the team reached this stage was in 2012.
In the upcoming semifinal, set for this Saturday at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium, the Southern Zone champions will compete against Cuvu College, who recently achieved a surprising victory over Ratu Kadavulevu School with a score of 23-22. Nasinu earned their spot in the semifinals by defeating Tailevu North College 17-13.
Yasiyasi credited the team’s success to their hard work and commitment, stating that the players have made sacrifices while choosing to stay humble despite their confidence. He emphasized the need to focus on refining certain areas of their game this week in preparation for their match against a formidable opponent.
Historically, Nasinu Secondary School has produced notable rugby talent, including Lemeki Koroi, Setareki Tawake, former France winger Virimi Vakatawa, Sakeo Raloa, and current Wallabies winger Marika Koroibete.
In his appeal for support, Yasiyasi urged former students of Nasinu Secondary School, along with parents and guardians, to rally behind the team for the upcoming semifinal.