Discipline and leadership are key focuses for the defending Vodafone Deans Trophy champions, the Queen Victoria School Under-18 team, as they prepare to face Marist Brothers High School in the quarterfinals at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium tomorrow.
In an interview with SUNsports, QVS U18 captain Anare Tabakaucoro emphasized the importance of respect for their opponents, noting Marist’s strong performance in their zone. “We had a normal preparation and we know that Marist is a good team,” he stated. “We respect them even though they came third in their zone competition.”
Tabakaucoro acknowledged the challenge of integrating into the team, having not played with them last year. He shared how he has been advising his teammates based on the strategies and successes of previous teams that helped them clinch the Deans Trophy. “We’ll play for each other again, for our family, friends, and the old boys this year,” he added.
He highlighted the team’s motivation stemming from the sacrifices made by their parents, particularly for those who have traveled from Vanua Levu and haven’t seen their families for an extended time. “Many of my teammates were raised by single parents, which drives us to perform well in every game,” he said.
Despite his experience with the Fijian Warriors and the Fiji Under-20 teams, Tabakaucoro remains humble. He firmly believes in putting God first. “I always tell myself to be humble and put God first because everything that happens in my life is not about me, it’s all about God,” he stated. He emphasized that the coaching staff encourages the team to aim to win the title again rather than simply defend it.
In contrast, the Under-18 manager from Marist Brothers High School stated that they prefer to maintain a low profile and will not be participating in interviews.