The Ra district teams are approaching the Vodafone Kaji competition with a focus on development rather than just winning, as expressed by Under 13 coach Varayame Ratu. He emphasized that their primary objective is to gain exposure and nurture their young players.
With only a week of training under their belt before the tournament commenced at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, the teams faced challenges, such as not having proper training shoes. However, this did not hinder their determination to compete at the national level. The four teams consist of players from U13 and U14 categories, selected from various locations including Drauniivi, Bureiwai, and Bucalevu.
Coach Ratu reiterated that their goal is to help the young athletes improve their skills and gain experience in the sport, noting the current success of Fijiana teams in rugby, which he hopes will inspire the growth of girls’ teams and provide a foundation for future high school rugby.
The Ra district teams are committed to rigorous training, holding three sessions daily and starting each day with a morning devotion. Coach Ratu encouraged the community members in Suva to come out to the stadium and support their teams, fostering a sense of local pride and involvement.
This approach underscores the importance of teamwork, growth, and community support, reflecting a positive outlook for these aspiring young athletes. As they participate in this competition, they are also contributing to a broader movement of nurturing talent in rugby, especially among youth, which bodes well for the future of the sport in Fiji.
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