Oceania rugby fans were treated to an exciting display of talent as former national 7s winger Amenoni Nasilasila participated in the Wadigi 7s tournament held at Nadovu Park in Lautoka. His remarkable performance for the Yaro Chiefs 7s team played a pivotal role in their success, helping them secure victories in all their pool matches.
Nasilasila, hailing from Namatakula, missed the opportunity to play in the Skipper Cup final against Naitasiri due to competition regulations. However, his participation in the Wadigi tournament highlighted his enduring skills and contribution to the sport.
The day-long tournament featured both rugby 7s and women’s netball, underscoring a commitment to promoting sports among diverse groups. Tournament coordinator Paul Batina emphasized two key objectives for the event: providing a platform for players excluded from the 15s rugby competitions to showcase their abilities, and fostering drug awareness among the youth to encourage positive lifestyle choices.
“The purpose of this tournament is to unite players and encourage engagement in sports rather than turning to drugs,” Batina stated. The event attracted a total of 32 teams for rugby 7s and eight teams for netball, showcasing a vibrant sports community.
As the tournament concluded, the rugby champions were awarded $5,000, with runners-up taking home $1,000 and semi-finalists receiving $700. The Wadigi tournament’s emphasis on youth involvement and social awareness resonates with other recent initiatives in the region, which similarly focus on engaging young people in sports to prevent negative influences.
Community-driven events like this not only serve as a platform for showcasing talent but also contribute positively to the personal development of young athletes, instilling discipline, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles. The success of the Wadigi 7s is a promising sign for the future of sports in Fiji, motivating communities to rally around youth engagement and well-being through athletic pursuits.