The upcoming Nawaka 7s tournament is set to make history by occurring back-to-back with the Marist 7s as part of the Fiji Bitter Series, marking a significant occasion for rugby enthusiasts in Fiji. The Nawaka 7s is scheduled to take place at Nadi’s Prince Charles Park from March 20-22, following the Marist 7s, which is slated for March 27-29.

Alfaio Tekavei, a sponsorship and events specialist with Paradise Beverages, announced this milestone during the launch of the Nawaka 7s tournament. He emphasized the benefits this timing will bring, especially for grassroots players in the West of Fiji, as they will now have the opportunity to compete in two major tournaments in consecutive weeks. Tekavei noted, “This is a great opportunity for the grassroots players in the West.”

Nawaka Rugby 7s tournament director, Maleli Ranawai, expressed gratitude for the support from Paradise Beverages, which has been pivotal in nurturing local rugby talent. This collaboration underscores the commitment not just to the sport but also to the community surrounding it. Paradise Beverages has a long-standing tradition of investing in Fijian rugby, having committed over $300,000 to the 2024-2025 Fiji Bitter 7s series, further evidencing their dedication to grassroots development.

The Nawaka 7s and Marist 7s are integral parts of a larger series which consists of 12 tournaments held from October to March, providing a platform for emerging players to showcase their skills and potentially advance to national representation. Events like these not only promote athleticism but also foster community spirit, highlighting the cultural importance of rugby in Fiji.

This season promises excitement for fans, with both tournaments expected to bring high levels of competition and engagement. The back-to-back scheduling will allow for a vibrant display of local talent, reinforcing the value of rugby in uniting communities across Fiji.

In summary, the dual-event structure not only aims to elevate the profile of both tournaments but also enhances the support for grassroots rugby, promising a bright future for aspiring players in the region.