During the recent Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s tournament, the Viwa rugby men’s team was disqualified after it came to light that a majority of its players were from the national squad. Tournament director Jeff Tamata made the decision shortly after the team left Prince Charles Park, highlighting the importance of maintaining the integrity of grassroots rugby. He stated that the involvement of national players could unfairly skew competition, particularly affecting local teams that are striving to compete on equal ground.
Tamata expressed a commitment to the development of grassroots clubs in Fiji, emphasizing the goal of ensuring legitimate representation within the tournament. He pointed out that should Viwa have emerged victorious, it would not have been a valid win as the team would not have represented their community authentically.
This year’s Nawaka 7s tournament has made history with a record 104 participating teams over three days, showcasing the increasing enthusiasm for rugby throughout Fiji. The event serves not only as a key platform for nurturing local talent but also as a celebration that brings together fans and players, reflecting the unity and spirit of the community.
While the disqualification may have disappointed some, it ultimately supports the objective of fostering local talent and upholding fair play within the sport. The vibrant atmosphere at the Nawaka 7s underlines rugby’s essential role in Fijian culture, providing hope that this commitment to grassroots development will inspire the next generation of athletes in the region.
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