In its 26-year history, Navatu Secondary School’s under-19 rugby team has reached the national quarter-finals of the Vodafone Super Deans for the first time. This milestone was achieved following a tense playoff match against St John’s Cawaci two weeks ago, where they edged out a victory with a score of 18-16 in Labasa.
The team has garnered strong support from the local community, including the nine villages that comprise Navatu, alumni, and the chief of Tamavua Village, where the students are currently staying.
Principal Ilikena Tomasi expressed pride in the achievements of the players, stating that they have set a new standard for the school. “Last year we made it to the playoffs in Labasa, but this year we have taken a step further, marking a significant moment in our history. We are proud of the boys; they have made history for themselves, the school, and their families. For 26 years, we have awaited this moment,” he remarked.
Tomasi acknowledged that competing at the national level presents a new challenge, and the team has been focusing on the mental readiness of the players in the days leading up to the match. Their mental preparedness will be vital, particularly as they face the southern zone’s top seed, Naitasiri Secondary School.
“It won’t be an easy match because we know Naitasiri Secondary is the reigning champion from Term 1. We respect them, having met them last year, but we still aim to win,” Tomasi noted.
Navatu is set to compete against Naitasiri tomorrow at 2:45 PM at Buckhurst Park in Laucala Bay, Suva.