Young female rugby players at Namata District School in Tailevu have shown remarkable progress, highlighting the positive impact of the Get Into Rugby (GIR) Plus program. This week, the program was showcased during the GIR Plus festival for primary schools held at Bidesi Ground in Laucala Bay, Suva.
Team coach Neli Nabogi emphasized the program’s significance in fostering life skills among participants and addressing issues surrounding violence. She noted that initially, students were hesitant to share their experiences. However, as the program progressed, they grew more open and willing to discuss their challenges.
Despite the Namata team preparing for the one-day tournament in just a week, their participation underscored the event’s focus on holistic development through sports. Nabogi, a teacher at the school, recalled her journey of implementing the GIR Plus program in Namata since 2018. She faced significant obstacles as a woman in a predominantly male sport but drew strength from her passion for rugby and commitment to teaching children.
The successful emergence of the GIR Plus program is a testament to the ability of sports to not only build skills but also foster empowerment and community resilience.
In this era of promoting gender equality in sports, programs like GIR Plus are crucial in inspiring young women to engage in rugby, breaking down barriers and cultivating a culture of respect. As they find their voices and gain confidence, the future looks bright for female athletes in Fiji.
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