Nauru’s Under-21 rugby team is gaining valuable experience by participating in the McDonald’s Coral Coast Rugby Sevens tournament in Fiji. Team manager Sefanaia Tekape emphasized the importance of exposure to larger competitions, stating that many players are currently part of Nauru’s rugby development pathways.

Tekape expressed eagerness for the young athletes to learn and grow through this unique opportunity, particularly highlighting the challenges they face back home, where their training facilities lack proper grass pitches. “We strive to play the game despite these challenges,” he noted. The Nauru team is focused on mastering the fundamentals of the game, such as techniques and defense patterns, with the primary goal being skill development rather than winning.

This experience also serves as an inspiration for the younger population in Nauru. Rugby has started to take root in a nation traditionally dominated by Australian football, as many young players are drawn to the sport for the potential it offers. Interestingly, the previous year saw the emergence of Nauru’s first professional rugby player, showcasing the pathways that this sport can open for dedicated athletes.

The players are grateful for the opportunity to compete on well-maintained fields in Sigatoka, a significant contrast to their home, where training facilities consist mostly of gravel. Tekape acknowledged the financial hurdles the team faces, including travel and accommodation costs, but expressed gratitude for the support from sponsors and the government, along with fundraising efforts from players and their families.

Moreover, Tekape called upon Nauru nationals living in Fiji to rally behind the team during the tournament, hoping that community support can foster a stronger bond among the players and inspire more youth to take up rugby.

The Coral Coast Sevens tournament, running from January 16 to 18, embodies a hopeful future for Nauru’s rugby scene, promoting teamwork, resilience, and providing young athletes with a platform for personal growth. As the players embark on this journey, their experiences in Fiji can serve as a catalyst for further advancements in Nauru’s rugby landscape, nurturing a new generation passionate about the sport.