Former Flying Fijian Seremaia Bai shared an inspiring message with young rugby players at Stella Maris Primary School, emphasizing the importance of listening, understanding, and applying knowledge—summarized in the acronym L.U.A.—during a special event celebrating the school’s participation in the Suva Kaji Rugby Association tournament. This initiative marks a significant achievement for the school, which fielded teams from under-9 to under-14 age groups over a ten-week period.
Bai, who served as the chief guest at the event, highlighted that the key to success in rugby and life lies in being able to listen to coaches, parents, and teachers. “Listening is a skill. If you can listen effectively, you will understand what is being said, and once you understand, you can apply it,” Bai stated. This simple yet powerful approach to learning applies both on the rugby field and in everyday life.
School rugby manager Mere Naulu reinforced the idea that the event was not just about rugby; it was a tribute to the boys and their families for the values they embody, echoing the principles of integrity and discipline in the sport. “This event is all about instilling values such as punctuality and respect, which are life lessons. Some might go on to white-collar jobs or utilize rugby as a career path, but these foundational values start here,” she remarked.
Naulu also mentioned that Bai was the perfect choice as a speaker since many students are connected to his junior rugby club, making his life story relatable and inspirational for the children. Bai’s journey of using rugby to support his family resonates strongly with the aspirations of the young players.
This event illustrates the growing effort to enhance youth engagement in rugby across Fiji. Just as seen in recent initiatives involving schools like Lomaivuna Primary School, where exposure to rugby is encouraged through participation in festivals, Stella Maris Primary’s commitment to nurturing talent mirrors the broader goal of fostering character development as well as athletic excellence.
The emphasis on values inherent in sports can be instrumental in shaping not only skilled athletes but also well-rounded individuals who are equipped to succeed in various aspects of life. The nurturing environment at grassroots levels like Stella Maris and others is essential for the future of rugby in Fiji, offering hope and motivation to young athletes eager to make their mark both on and off the field.
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