The inaugural leg of the Fiji Sports Council’s under-20 sevens rugby tournaments kicked off yesterday at Thomson Park in Navua. Featuring 16 men’s teams and six women’s teams, the one-day event provided a dedicated platform for young athletes to shine.
Tournament director Tiko Matawalu emphasized the importance of this tournament, noting that it gave under-20 players the opportunity to showcase their talents outside the larger competitions where they often get overlooked. He expressed that these young players deserved their own space to perform, saying, “They’ve been riding on tournaments with open grades, and the focus continues to be on those.”
Matawalu praised the Fiji Sports Council for organizing the event, highlighting it as a chance for both male and female players to compete on their own terms. He acknowledged the crucial support from Fiji Rugby for this initiative and stressed that this event marks a positive direction for the sport.
The enthusiastic turnout from parents and guardians was also noted as vital for the players’ morale. Matawalu remarked that the comfort of knowing their children are participating in a safe environment encourages greater support from families. “We have the support from parents, and they feel more comfortable when their sons and daughters are playing in their respective grades,” he said.
This tournament not only uplifts the young athletes but also fosters a sense of community and encouragement around the sport, promising a bright future for sevens rugby in Fiji.
Overall, the event symbolizes a significant step forward for youth rugby, with ample support ensuring that these young players can develop their skills and gain valuable experience on the field.
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