The Flame Tree Colo-i-Suva rugby team, representing the Vuna district, is set to make its inaugural appearance at the Hamilton Fijian 7s tournament in New Zealand, marking a historic moment for this largely village-based squad. Manager Laisiasa Kubu shared insights about the team’s journey and aspirations as they prepare for their departure next week.
“This tour is a part of the long-term development of our club,” Kubu stated, emphasizing the significance of this opportunity. Many players in the squad have honed their skills through local rugby sevens and district competitions, and for most of them, this will be their first international experience, with only two players having previous exposure as part of the senior Naitasiri team.
The tournament promises to be a life-changing event for the players, many of whom have never flown before. Kubu remarked on the excitement within the team, describing it as “baptism by fire.” The players have been training rigorously since November, following their participation in local sevens series, to ensure they are well-prepared for this new challenge.
The Hamilton tournament serves not only as a competitive platform but also as a vital opportunity for exposure. Kubu noted that rugby scouts will attend, providing the young athletes a chance to demonstrate their abilities and potentially secure professional opportunities abroad. He referenced a previous experience where many players from an AFL Fiji team were able to obtain positions in Australia after performing well during a similar exposure trip.
Rugby is viewed as an essential tool for community engagement and youth development in the Vuna district, and the team’s expectations are focused on gaining visibility while showcasing their talents to the attending scouts.
With the support of former club members living in New Zealand, local businesses, and the broader community, the Flame Tree Colo-i-Suva team is poised to represent their village proudly in Hamilton, embodying hope and opportunity for all involved.