The Votualevu Youth Rugby Club is stepping up to harness the power of rugby as a vital resource for children amid a deepening drug crisis in the community. Club official Seremaia Visawaqa emphasizes that reviving one of Nadi’s oldest rugby clubs is about more than just tradition; it is about saving lives.
Visawaqa points out that there has been an alarming rise in children being exposed to dangerous habits, and he believes that sports like rugby can serve as an effective protective barrier. “This club once produced numerous great players but faded away over time. We decided to bring it back to actively combat drug issues,” he stated.
The club aims to provide tangible alternatives rather than simply preach about the dangers of drug use. “We’re not just trying to talk about the issue; we truly want to make an impact so that kids are steered away from drugs,” Visawaqa declared.
The urgency of their mission is underscored by concerning statistics, including reports of a seven-year-old being the youngest documented case of drug involvement in Fiji. “If we don’t take action now, it will be too late,” he warned.
In light of this pressing issue, the upcoming Nadi Junior Rugby Festival promises to be a significant event. Set to feature 95 teams spanning from Under-8 to Under-18 across both boys’ and girls’ divisions, the tournament is backed by Oceania Rugby and is seen as more than just a sporting occasion. For Visawaqa and the Votualevu club, it represents a beacon of hope and a structured environment that can provide purpose to countless young people who need it the most. Through these initiatives, the community strives to foster a supportive atmosphere where the youth feel valued and engaged.
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