After 12 years, the Nasinu Secondary School Under-18 rugby team has advanced past the quarterfinals of the Vodafone Deans Trophy. Coach Semisi Yasiyasi noted that their last quarterfinal advancement 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, having secured a victory against Tailevu North College with a score of 17-13 in the quarterfinal.
Yasiyasi emphasized that the team’s success is a result of hard work and dedication. “The boys have made sacrifices, and while they are confident, they choose to remain humble,” he stated. He acknowledged the quality of their upcoming opponent, Cuvu College, which had previously upset Ratu Kadavulevu School with a narrow 23-22 win.
In preparation, the team will focus on improving certain aspects of their performance this week. Over the years, Nasinu Secondary School has produced many notable rugby players, including Lemeki Koroi, Setareki Tawake, former France winger Virimi Vakatawa, Sakeo Raloa, and current Wallabies winger Marika Koroibete.
Yasiyasi has reached out to former students, parents, and guardians for support in the crucial semifinal match.