Excitement is building in Levuka as the inaugural Fiji Bitter Yalovata 7s tournament kicks off at Nasau Park. Meli Waqabaca, the vice-president of the Yalovata Rugby Club, expressed enthusiasm for the event, noting that the local community on Ovalau is eagerly awaiting the start of the matches.
Waqabaca mentioned that preparations for the tournament have gone smoothly, highlighting the excellent weather and field conditions that await the teams. “Everything is on track, the weather and ground look amazing, and everyone is just excited to get on the field to play rugby,” he stated. Some teams have already arrived and are taking advantage of the opportunity to train, acclimating themselves to the field ahead of game day.
The competition is expected to be fierce, with strong teams such as Police Blue, Warden Gold, and BLK Lavidi all vying for victory during the three-day event. The tournament features an impressive lineup, including 32 main men’s teams, 16 under-21 teams, and four women’s teams, along with additional netball and volleyball matches, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.
Waqabaca emphasized the tournament’s goal of nurturing grassroots rugby talent, particularly among young players in the islands, as a crucial step toward the future of the sport. He anticipates a larger crowd this year, attributing this to reasonable entry fees and the participation of high-profile teams. “The turnout will likely be greater than in previous years because fans have the chance to see these teams they usually only watch on television,” he said.
Waqabaca encourages everyone to come out to support the only Lomaiviti competition, fostering community spirit as the tournament aims to engage local fans. The matches are set to commence today at 8 AM, promising a thrilling start to the rugby season.
This tournament not only highlights the talent and passion for rugby in Fiji but also brings together the community to celebrate sport and camaraderie. As the teams take to the field, there’s a palpable sense of unity and support that can inspire future generations of rugby players in the region.
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