Tuvalu’s participation in the Nadi Junior Rugby Festival this year has emerged as a remarkable highlight, showcasing the determination and spirit of a nation that has faced significant challenges in developing its rugby infrastructure. For many players, this festival not only marked their debut in international competition but was also their first experience of traveling beyond Tuvalu.
Head coach Alama Elisaia emphasized the importance of this exposure for the young athletes, who have primarily played local rugby under less-than-ideal conditions. “The whole purpose of our tour here was just to expose our boys. These are all new players as they have been just playing local rugby at home on the runway. This is a good chance for them to absorb as much as we can from other Fijian clubs and other teams,” he stated.
Elisaia faced considerable obstacles in preparing the team, particularly due to the absence of a proper training facility and equipment. The team had to resort to training on the airport runway, and struggles with school commitments made the selection of age-grade athletes even more difficult. “There wasn’t a proper gym… in Tuvalu we do not have a proper gym. We usually train on the runway. It was difficult, but through the passion of the boys, we managed to form the team,” he reflected on the experience.
Beyond the athletic development, the festival has instilled a renewed sense of pride among Tuvaluan families, particularly mothers, as the country aspires to enhance both men’s and women’s rugby, despite limited participation numbers. The Nadi Junior Rugby Festival concluded recently, having hosted over 95 teams from Fiji, Tuvalu, and Nauru, symbolizing a triumphant and hopeful moment for Tuvaluan rugby and its growing community.