The Suva Kaji Rugby Association is seeking sponsorships for its upcoming tournament, which aims to promote a robust anti-drug message among children and parents. The president of the association, Aporosa Tamani, emphasized that the theme for 2025, “Drug-Free Kids, Strong Team,” is integral to the tournament’s objectives and expressed hope for support from corporate partners and ministries to amplify their message regarding the dangers of drug use.
Tamani noted the increasing impact of drugs on youth and highlighted the tournament as an excellent opportunity to keep children engaged in positive activities. “Keeping children busy through sports helps steer them away from risky behaviors,” he stated, underscoring the initiative’s educational component about the effects of drugs.
The tournament, which kicked off recently at the Saint Marcellin Primary School grounds, will run for seven weeks, involving 23 participating primary schools—21 from Suva and two from Lami, including the newly added Waiqanake District School. Children aged 9 to 14 will compete, with the intention of selecting the top players to represent Suva at the national Kaji Rugby competition later in the year. Notably, teams from Vanua Levu and other regions of Fiji are expected to join, further enriching the competition.
In alignment with other sporting initiatives across Fiji, such as the Fiji Bitter Mataso Nakorovou 7s tournament and other upcoming events focused on youth and anti-drug messages, this tournament represents a unified effort to foster positive life values like teamwork, discipline, and respect while keeping children active in sports.
Tamani also highlighted the need for materials like posters and pamphlets to increase awareness among parents and youths attending the tournament, supporting a community-wide understanding of the anti-drug message.
This initiative not only emphasizes the importance of sports as a tool for community engagement but also stands as a testament to the power of youth-focused programs in combating drug-related issues in contemporary society. By merging sports with social responsibility, events like these pave the way for a healthier, more engaged future for the youth of Fiji.
Leave a comment