New champions emerged in the Weet-Bix Raluve finals at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, with dramatic finishes in both the under-16 and under-18 divisions.
Under-16
Defending champions Sigatoka Methodist College were edged 12-10 by Ratu Latianara College, a surprise outcome that handed Korovisilou, Serua-based Ratu Latianara the title. The winning moment came late when Nanise Donumaitoga dotted down for the decisive try as Sigatoka Methodist’s defense, which had appeared compact for much of the match, briefly opened the door to a late change in fortune. Sigatoka Methodist, who had been tightly marshaling the field, were left to ponder how the tide turned in the dying minutes. The victory was attributed by head coach Ratu Vidika Kuriyalavou to a strong backing from the vanua, sponsors Nanuku Resort and Post Fiji, and the support of parents and guardians.
Under-18
In the longer-format showdown, the Raluve trophy moved across Vomo Street in Lautoka, marking a new chapter for the Sugar City as Jasper Williams High School claimed the crown after a hard-fought battle with Natabua High School. Jasper weathered a determined Natabua challenge, even allowing a point-blank standoff at five apiece in the contest, before sealing the result with a disciplined defensive effort that stymied Natabua’s late advances. Jasper’s head coach Alena Laqai gave thanks for guidance and protection, praising the team’s resilience and execution throughout the match. Jasper Williams High School collected $5,000 for the victory, while the U16 champions Ratu Latianara College took home $3,000.
Context and related developments
Beyond this day’s results, broader coverage has highlighted Natabua and Jasper as rising forces in Fiji’s youth rugby, with Natabua’s 27-22 semifinal win over Dawasamu Secondary School noted as a key step toward the final, and Jasper’s ongoing strong form in earlier clashes that have kept them in the championship conversation. Other reports also point to a competitive pathway across the Weet-Bix Raluve competitions, underscoring the depth of talent developing in the region and the important role of academy structures, schools, and community backing in shaping tomorrow’s senior players.
Additional value and outlook
– The event underscores the importance of community support, sponsorship, and family involvement in youth rugby development, withNanuku Resort and Post Fiji among the backing groups cited as critical to sustained success.
– The victories bode well for the continued growth of rugby at primary and secondary levels in Suva, Lautoka, Sigatoka, and surrounding areas, and may foreshadow a pipeline of players moving into higher-level age-grade programs in years to come.
– For coaches and programs, the finals highlighted the benefits of tight defense, late-pressuring routines, and mental resilience in close two-score games.
Summary
The Weet-Bix Raluve finals delivered upsets and breakthroughs, with Ratu Latianara College upsetting Sigatoka Methodist College in the U16 decider and Jasper Williams High School taking the U18 crown in a tense, well-fought final. The day reinforced the strength of Fiji’s youth rugby pathways, celebrated community and sponsor support, and suggested a bright horizon for young players poised to rise through the ranks. If the current momentum continues, more stars could emerge from these schools in the coming seasons.
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