The Navala Youth rugby team is gearing up for the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament, remaining optimistic about their prospects despite encountering various challenges along the way. Team official Ilairo Belo highlighted their self-reliant approach, including fundraising efforts to cover transportation and accommodation costs for the three-day event.
Belo revealed that the team has faced difficult weather conditions, which have affected their training facilities, often resorting to using tires for workouts due to a lack of proper gym equipment. Nevertheless, the players’ ability to improvise and adapt underlines their resilience, as they have been preparing for three weeks leading up to the tournament.
In a bid to support their participation, players have taken on odd jobs, such as farm work, to fund their expenses, showcasing their commitment. Recent flooding has made it difficult for the team to access their usual training grounds, and the bridge linking their village to the Ba River has also been impacted.
This will mark the Navala Youth’s second participation in the tournament, and Belo emphasized their ambition to at least reach the playoffs this year. He stressed the necessity of staying focused and fostering stronger communication on the field, especially against formidable opponents, including top local teams and overseas challengers.
Belo has encouraged players to stay clear of negative influences, urging them to channel their energy into showcasing their talent at the tournament as a potential pathway to professional rugby. He pointed out the importance of the team’s bond, as many players hail from the same village, contributing to a strong sense of unity.
Belo has also extended an invitation to the Navala community to come out and support the team during the tournament. He underscored that they represent not only their village but also their shared spirit, reminding everyone of the collective strength found in community support.
The participation of the Navala Youth rugby team in this tournament is not only an opportunity for them to compete but also a representation of hope and perseverance. It reflects the broader narrative where sports serve as a transformative avenue for young athletes to aspire for better futures through hard work and dedication.
In summary, the Navala Youth rugby team embodies resilience and determination as they prepare for the Coral Coast 7s, reinforcing the importance of community and support in nurturing the next generation of athletes.
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