Nakasaleka rugby head coach Vilikesa Vulakauvaki has taken responsibility for a recent incident at the Kadavu Rugby Union’s Southern Rally, attributing the turmoil to interference from officials. He highlighted that Nakasaleka entered two teams in the senior division and one in the under-19 category.
Vulakauvaki expressed concern over the “vakavanua style” of governance within the team’s officials, stating that tensions have arisen due to their actions, which have led to talks of other teams withdrawing from the competition. He emphasized that if the Nakasaleka officials moved away from this traditional mentality, the situation could have been avoided.
On the second day of the event, officials informed Vulakauvaki that Nakasaleka One would have to forfeit their semi-final match against Nakasaleka Two. They also approached the organizers to declare the under-19 team as champions based on their performance in the round-robin stage. This decision was met with disapproval from other teams, resulting in some exiting the venue.
Vulakauvaki voiced his frustration, indicating that conflicting messages were relayed while the players were preparing to leave. He stressed that the aim should be to foster the sport, but such behavior from officials threatens the aspirations of players wanting to represent their region.
In support, Kadavu Rugby Union vice-president Rusiate Wadali echoed Vulakauvaki’s sentiments, advocating for the autonomy of the sport. He described the incident as minor but underscored the need to keep the union separate from traditional influences to avoid hindering development.
Wadali announced plans to present their strategy to the Kadavu Provincial Office, aiming to establish a clear path forward for the team while emphasizing the importance of independent governance in the region’s rugby affairs. He urged reconciliation among chiefs and club officials while reiterating respect for the sport’s governing principles.