Tailevu’s journey in the Skipper Cup 2025 reached an emotional conclusion last Saturday with a narrow 26-31 semi-final defeat against Naitasiri. Despite the setback, Tailevu Rugby Union president Joseph Rodan expressed immense gratitude for the unwavering support from families and communities that propelled the team to this stage. In a heartfelt message on their official Facebook page, Rodan acknowledged the invaluable encouragement players received from their loved ones, stating, “Behind every player and official is a family that gives strength and encouragement. We thank them sincerely for standing by our team. The success we have achieved this season reflects their love and support.”
This season marked a significant step forward for Tailevu, as they fielded a predominantly young team composed of homegrown talent from village and club competitions. While Naitasiri boasted experienced stars like captain Jone Naqiri and international player Virimi Vakatawa, Tailevu showcased the potential of its younger players, reinforcing its long-term vision of developing athletes capable of representing Fiji in rugby.
Reflecting on their semi-final performance, Rodan highlighted the progression from last year when Tailevu faced an early quarter-final exit against Naitasiri. “Our goal remains clear: to develop our club players into provincial representatives and future Fiji Rugby stars. The journey is challenging, but with hard work and unity, we are confident of success.”
Rodan’s commitment to building a sustainable rugby framework emphasizes the importance of not only winning matches but fostering a robust system that nurtures young talents. The union’s focus on development aims to ensure that future generations of players have the opportunities to thrive both in Tailevu and on bigger stages like Fiji Rugby.
This season has sparked a renewed hope for Tailevu Rugby, displaying resilience and progress. The unity among the players, their families, and the broader community bodes well for the future as they continue to cultivate a culture rooted in support and excellence in rugby. As the team looks to the future, the commitment to growth and nurturing local talent remains a beacon of optimism for Tailevu’s rugby aspirations.
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