The Nasinu Under-20 rugby team’s recent triumph over the Northern Bulls with a thrilling 15-13 win is being celebrated as a pivotal moment in their comprehensive three-year development strategy. Head coach Usaia Dakuitoga, known for his strategic foresight, is at the helm, guiding a group of budding talents from CMF College, Nasinu, Lelean Memorial School, and Nabua Secondary School. This youthful team’s composition, primarily 17-year-olds, showcased their determination as they clinched their first victory of the Vodafone Vanua Trophy season through a nail-biting last-minute try.
Despite a tough start to the season with two initial losses, Coach Dakuitoga remains steadfast in his optimism about the team’s growth trajectory and eventual success. He reinforced this confidence by stating, “Our plan was a three-year plan,” underscoring the team’s long-term vision aimed at elevating some players to higher competition levels, potentially within the Under-20 contingent or earning spots in the Drua Academy.
The coach praised the team for their tenacity and determination, attributing part of their achievement to the unwavering support from families and the broader Nasinu Rugby community. He expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “First of all, I want to thank the boys for the effort well done for today’s game,” extending thanks also to the supporters and families whose encouragement has been vital throughout the season.
This victory serves as a crucial morale booster, pulling Nasinu U20 up from the bottom of the standings and reinforcing their commitment to long-term goals. It mirrors the triumphs experienced by other teams in the community, such as the Nasinu Secondary School Old Boys and the women’s rugby team, underscoring a promising trend in youth development and sporting success in Nasinu rugby.
The path Dakuitoga and his team are embarking on reflects a greater dedication to fostering talent and building resilience through meticulous planning and community backing. With continuous skill advancement and gained experience, anticipation is mounting regarding their potential to excel in higher competitive arenas in the future.
This success not only fuels hope and optimism within the Nasinu Rugby community but also serves as an inspiration for other young athletes and teams. It stands as a testament to what determination paired with strategic planning and community spirit can accomplish on the field.