In Fiji, rugby has been a cornerstone for youth development, providing a means to grow, learn, and find direction. This spirit is embodied in the inaugural Bula Brothers Rugby 7s tournament, which aims to offer hope and purpose to young individuals through the sport they cherish. Scheduled for July 25-26 at Thomson Park in Navua, the tournament is organized by the Bula Brothers club, established in 2021.
Ratu Jone Pio Macanawai, the tournament coordinator, expressed that the event seeks to create opportunities for young people, particularly those at risk of engaging in substance abuse and other societal challenges. “This is more than just a rugby tournament,” he stated, emphasizing the goal of using the platform to guide youth towards positive paths.
Part of the funds raised during the tournament is slated to help the club’s team travel to Sydney, Australia, for another tournament on October 4-5. This initiative follows their attendance at a similar event earlier this year, where they faced preparation challenges.
The tournament promises to be a competitive showcase, featuring 48 men’s teams and 12 women’s teams, with highlighted local entrants such as the Viti Roofing Devo Babas and the Police and Wardens Gold teams. Kasabias is the official tournament sponsor, and noteworthy prizes include $5,000 for the men’s champions and $1,000 for the women’s winners.
Macanawai also invites the Namosi community to show their support, stating, “Come out and cheer. You never know, your support might be the turning point for one of these young boys.”
This event resonates with similar initiatives, like the upcoming McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s tournament in January 2025, underscoring the transformative power of sports in nurturing community spirit and personal development among the youth. As demonstrated by both the Bula Brothers and the Dominion Brothers teams, rugby serves as a vital pathway not only for competitive play but also for fostering resilience, discipline, and hope for the future.
The positive energy surrounding these tournaments reflects a commitment to not just athletic excellence but also community upliftment, creating supportive environments where young athletes can thrive both on and off the field.
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