Twenty players have been selected by the Island Breeze Rugby Plus during the two days Bua Invitational Rugby Sevens at Bua Central College in Bua.

Island Breeze Rugby Plus with Nasoqo Investment partnered with the sponsor, Katalyst Foundation to organise this tournament inviting men, women and youth U-19 of Bua origin to compete for the first time.

Island Breeze Rugby Plus Australia director Waqa Baravilala said selection was very tough as all players were aware of their presence and tried every means to showcase their talent.

“There are many potential players from various villages but unfortunately we only could select the best 20,” Baravilala said.

“These players will get the pathway to gain exposure as they will be sent to overseas to participate in big tournaments.”

Among the 20 players was Veremalua Kaliseiwaqa of Combined Brothers.

The Year 13 student of Queen Victoria School said he felt honoured to be selected.

“I have been playing rugby from the age of 10,” the 19-year-old originally from Raviravi Village in Bua said.

“I now feel that I can consider having a career in rugby.”

Katalyst Foundation rep Ratu Iskeli Tuiwailevu was overwhelmed with the turnout.

“We have provided a sponsorship of $13,000 prizemoney to the organising committee,” Tuiwailevu said.

Bua Invitational Tournament organising committee chairman Luke Naitaka said they will visit former rugby players residing in Bua.

“We will spend some time with them and gift some money to show our appreciation,” Naitaka said.

The tournament ended yesterday.

Edited by Osea Bola

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