Former Flying Fijians forwards coach Senirusi Seruvakula played a pivotal role in Queen Victoria School’s 27-13 victory over Nasinu Secondary School in the Vodafone Deans Trophy grand final. This was shared by QVS Under-18 head coach Josaia Waiwalu on Saturday night.
Waiwalu noted, “He (Seruvakula) is our technical coach. He is the best coach in the Pacific at the moment. We are learning a lot from him as he is also an old boy of the school. We are grateful to have him in the team.”
Earlier this year, Seruvakula was considered for the head coaching position of the Flying Fijians. He previously led the Fijian Drua to victory in the Australia National Rugby Championship in 2018 and coached the Fiji women’s rugby team at the 2022 Women’s Rugby World Cup, where they secured a win against South Africa.
Last year, Seruvakula served as the forwards coach for the Flying Fijians at the Rugby World Cup, where the team reached the quarterfinals.
Waiwalu emphasized that they prepared thoroughly to defend the Deans Trophy against a tough opponent, stating their main strategy was to maintain possession, which proved effective. He expressed, “We talked about faith at the start of the year and we’ve finally witnessed that.”
The team, comprising students from diverse backgrounds, formed strong bonds throughout the season. Waiwalu explained, “We play for one another as there are many unfortunate stories, and we’ve come together to support each other.”
This win is especially significant for QVS, marking their 25th title, with Waiwalu remarking, “The Deans Trophy is a property of the Tailevu schools.”
In related news, QVS captain Anare Tabakaucoro, who plays as first five-eighth, aims to advance his rugby career. He shared, “My plan is to play for the (Fijian) Drua. I want to play professionally and stay in Fiji to be close to my mother.”
Tabakaucoro played a crucial role in the final by maintaining composure and control throughout the game. He added, “This is my last year, and I want to give back to the school. Our parents have been very inspirational. Most of us (players) are raised single-handed, and we as a team dedicate this win to them.”