Peniasi Ratu, celebrated for his decisive penalty that clinched the 2016 Deans title for Queen Victoria School (QVS), is rallying the current generation of players to rise and leave their mark in the ongoing Vodafone Deans competition. Ratu, a notable former Fiji Under-20 and Fiji Warriors player, now serves as a halfback for Namosi while also fulfilling his duties as a Fiji Corrections officer, emphasizing the importance of the Deans quarterfinals as a platform for creating legends in rugby.
Highlighting the collective pride and responsibility involved in the game, Ratu stated, “You’re not only playing for yourself, you’re playing for the school, your family, and also for the QVS family worldwide.” His encouragement comes as QVS prepares to kick off the quarterfinals, which begin this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka and Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Fans can look forward to watching the opening matches broadcast live on FBC Sports and FBC 2.
The upcoming competition is expected to be fiercely contested, especially with QVS aiming to defend its title as the most successful school in the tournament’s history, having claimed the Deans Trophy 24 times since its inception in 1939. The team has received significant support from esteemed alumni, including Tevita Ikanivere, captain of the Fiji Water Flying Fijians, who expressed confidence in QVS’s abilities, stating, “I know QVS will win the Deans.”
Notably, Waisea Luveniyali, another former QVS star, remarked on the heightened intensity of the current competition, indicating that this year has seen an increase in competitiveness and several surprising outcomes in matches leading up to the quarterfinals.
With the spotlight on QVS as they gear up for these critical matches, Ratu’s call to action inspires not only the players but also fosters a sense of unity across the school and its supporters. The prevailing sentiment is one of hope and determination, with the school community eager for the young athletes to continue their legacy of excellence.
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