Sigatoka District School is gearing up to celebrate its rich rugby heritage with the return of two exceptional talents, Rupeni Raviyawa and James Tuituba, both proudly donning their Junior All Blacks jerseys. Raviyawa hails from Nasama Village in Nadroga and now attends Feilding High School in Wellington, New Zealand. Meanwhile, Tuituba marks a significant milestone as the second alumnus from the SDS Rugby Academy to achieve this prestigious recognition, further cementing the academy’s reputation for cultivating world-class rugby players.
Sevina Tove, the Head of School, highlights the profound impact of the SDS Rugby Academy, emphasizing its role in fostering resilience, character, and strength in young men, not just on the pitch but in all aspects of life. “The SDS Rugby Academy is not just about rugby. It’s about shaping young men building resilience, character, and strength. These boys are champions on and off the field,” Tove stated.
She also expressed gratitude to Ratu Kadavulevu School for its continued support in helping Year 8 boys from Sigatoka develop both athletically and academically. This year, four boys are on the path to securing interviews for admission to Ratu Kadavulevu for the year 2026. Raviyawa and Tuituba are notable examples of the effective pathway from Sigatoka District School to Ratu Kadavulevu and then onto scholarships in New Zealand, showcasing the strength of grassroots rugby development.
Historically, Sigatoka District School has been a launchpad for numerous national rugby representatives. The school boasts a proud legacy featuring notable past players such as Watile Tuinagiagia, Ratu Meli Kurisaru, and the late Aminiasi Natuiyaga, among many others. In honor of these achievements, a dedicated space on the HT Office Sports Achievements Wall will be established to commemorate these significant contributions.
To inspire future athletes, framed jerseys and photos of alumni representing various clubs—both local and international—will be prominently displayed. Alongside Raviyawa and Tuituba, other alumni like Ratu Jone Ulunisau and Mesake Tove are continuing the legacy, illustrating that the Sigatoka Academy not only cultivates exceptional players but also develops strong, well-rounded individuals ready to make a difference in their communities.
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