The Vodafone West Secondary School Deans rugby semi-finals are set to take place this Saturday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. The event will prominently feature the Raluve Under-16 and Under-18 girls’ divisions, which will be played on Ground One, signaling a move towards promoting gender equality and enhancing facilities for female teams, according to West Secondary Schools Rugby Association president Jovesa Saqali.
Saqali highlighted the decision to allow these grades access to better facilities, saying, “This year, we have given the two Raluve grades U16 and U18 the opportunity to play on Ground One to give them privileged treatment and better access to the changing rooms.” This initiative aims to recognize the contributions and performance of the girls’ teams, who currently hold the national trophies for both categories.
The defending champions in the Raluve U16 division are Sigatoka Methodist College, while Natabua High School holds the title in the Raluve U18 category. Saqali expressed confidence in the girls’ potential, stating, “We believe that if we treat them well here at the zonal meet, they will do well in the nationals. We are expecting a tough and good competition come Saturday.”
In addition to the girls’ semi-finals, the main Deans U18 boys’ playoffs will feature exciting matchups, including Natabua High School taking on Ra High School, followed by a highly anticipated clash between Ratu Navula College and Cuvu College. All winners from Saturday’s matches will qualify for the national quarter-finals.
The overall schedule showcases a vibrant day of rugby, which also includes matches across various grades, such as U15, U16, U17, and U19, promising an action-packed event that brings together schools and local communities in support of youth sports.
The push for equality and recognition for female athletes in rugby is a positive development, as it illustrates the growing emphasis on inclusivity in sports, paving the way for future generations of female athletes.
This event will not only serve as a competitive platform but also as an inspiring showcase of talent and determination.
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