Young athletes demonstrated their skills at the 2025 Fiji Bitter Yalovata Lomaiviti 7s tournament, which took place at Nasau Park in Levuka over the weekend. The two-day event showcased grassroots rugby, featuring intense matches that concluded with thrilling finishes.
The Village Boys team accomplished a remarkable feat by winning the tournament championship, edging out Kava Vacalea with a tight 15-12 victory in the final match. Team captain Beniamino Ratu expressed sincere gratitude for the commitment and effort of his teammates throughout the competition. He highlighted that strategic teamwork was essential to their success.
“I want to thank the almighty for being part of our lives throughout our journey,” Ratu said. “I conveyed to the boys, starting from the quarter-finals, that we needed to work smart and together on the field—that’s the way to win.”
In addition to their championship win, Ratu celebrated the success of teammate Josefa, who is on the verge of starting a professional rugby career in Georgia. “We congratulate Josefa on securing a rugby contract and wish him all the best on his journey ahead,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Ratu recognized the hurdles his team faces, especially regarding securing sponsorship to support their development. “We are seeking sponsors to back our young team, the Village Boys,” he stated.
Gratitude was a prominent theme in Ratu’s remarks, as he thanked the players, their families, supporters, and fans for their unwavering encouragement from the outset of their journey.
In further tournament results, Axellerate Aflame Brothers achieved victory in the U21 category, overcoming Bureta with a score of 17-12, while Sinukakala secured the women’s title with a commanding 20-5 win against Tagimoucia Ranadi. The tournament not only highlighted emerging talent but also reinforced the rich rugby culture in Fiji, instilling hope for the sport’s future.