Oceania rugby enthusiasts experienced an exhilarating showcase of skill and talent as former national 7s winger Amenoni Nasilasila took part in the Wadigi 7s tournament at Nadovu Park in Lautoka. Nasilasila’s impressive performance with the Yaro Chiefs 7s team was instrumental in their success, with the team achieving victories in all of their pool matches.
Hailing from Namatakula, Nasilasila’s participation in the Wadigi tournament was particularly notable as he had previously missed the chance to compete in the Skipper Cup final against Naitasiri due to regulatory constraints. His presence in this tournament served as a reminder of his enduring talent and ongoing contribution to the sport of rugby.
The event, held over one day, not only featured rugby 7s but also included women’s netball, highlighting a commitment to promoting various sports within the community. Tournament coordinator Paul Batina outlined two primary goals for the event: to create a platform for players not involved in 15s rugby competitions to display their skills, and to raise drug awareness among youth, encouraging them towards positive lifestyle choices.
“The purpose of this tournament is to unite players and encourage engagement in sports rather than turning to drugs,” stated Batina. The tournament attracted an impressive total of 32 teams for rugby 7s and eight teams for netball, reflecting a spirited and active sports community.
As the tournament drew to a close, the rugby champions were rewarded with $5,000, while the runners-up secured $1,000 and the semi-finalists received $700. The Wadigi tournament’s focus on youth engagement and social awareness aligns with other similar initiatives in the region, emphasizing the importance of youth participation in sports to combat negative influences.
Events like the Wadigi 7s not only provide a platform for emerging talent but also play a crucial role in the personal development of young athletes, fostering values such as discipline, teamwork, and healthy living. The success of this tournament is an encouraging indicator of the future of sports in Fiji, inspiring communities to come together in support of youth development and well-being through sport.