Navatu Secondary School has achieved a historic milestone by reaching the national quarter-finals of the Vodafone Super Deans for the first time in its 26-year history. Their under-19 team secured this achievement with a hard-fought victory against St John’s Cawaci, winning 18-16 in Labasa two weeks ago.
The school’s journey has been supported by the local community, including the nine villages that comprise Navatu, alumni, and the chief of Tamavua Village, where the team is currently staying. Principal Ilikena Tomasi expressed pride in the team, stating they have established a new legacy for the school.
“Last year, we made it to the playoffs in Labasa, but this year we have taken a step further, marking a historic moment for us,” he said. “We are proud of the boys; they have made history for themselves, their school, and their families.”
Tomasi acknowledged the heightened level of competition at the national stage and emphasized the importance of mental preparation for the players in the days leading up to the match. The team’s mental resilience will be crucial as they face the southern zone under-19 champions, Naitasiri Secondary School.
“It won’t be easy because Naitasiri Secondary is the reigning champion of rugby league from Term 1,” he noted. “We faced them last year, we respect them, but we are hoping to secure a win.”
Navatu will compete against Naitasiri tomorrow at 2:45 PM at Buckhurst Park in Laucala Bay, Suva.