BA Methodist High School is poised to present a formidable Under-18 team in this year’s Deans rugby competition, thanks to the recently established Ba Rugby Union Youth Academy at the school. This new initiative, which launched earlier this year, aims to bolster junior player development in Ba and has already made a significant impact on the school’s rugby program.
U18 coach Ioana Lewatiakana is optimistic about the upcoming competition, stating that fans can expect to see a transformed Ba Methodist team this season. The team’s recent victory against the Eastern Saints U18 squad serves as a promising indicator of their potential, showcasing the players’ discipline and commitment on the field even with limited time to regroup and prepare.
The academy currently boasts an extended squad of 32 players, with 20 under the rigorous training program at Ba Methodist. It’s noteworthy that the academy has attracted talent from surrounding areas, with players traveling from as far as Tavua and Nadi to participate, enhancing the team’s depth and competitiveness.
Lewatiakana emphasized that the academy offers young athletes a robust platform for growth under expert guidance, a development that is expected to yield benefits for both Ba Rugby and Ba Methodist High School in the future. With such a solid foundation and a wide array of talent, the prospects for Ba Methodist in this year’s Deans competition are promising, signaling an exciting season ahead for the team and its supporters.