Red Rock rugby 7s club are back after a four-year lapse.

Yesterday, the Qauia-based club received a $3000 boost from Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi.

Today, Red Rock play in the Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s tournament at Prince Charles Park, Nadi.

Red Rock RC president Russ Lote Rasiga said the jersey handover was important to the players who came from a low-income area like Qauia.

They are in Pool 12 alongside Ratu Filise Blue, Sharks and Akuila Nasi’s Fire team.

“Getting the boys out here to meet these successful businessmen, is something big for us,” he added.

The club over the years have produced top rugby players like Sireli Bobo, Jasa Veremalua, Jone Macilai, Niumaia Cakacaka, Jack Prasad, Manasa Bola, Eroni Sau, Peni Daunimeke, Sirilo Dasi and the list goes on.

“We’re looking forward to the game and we haven’t played for the last four years.

“We’ve been training hard and hopefully the results will be good tomorrow and Saturday as well.”

Hotel manager Daniel Roy said Tanoa Hotel is proud to be associated with local teams.

He also encouraged them the importance of discipline as it’s the way to achieve the highest level of professional rugby.

Richard Breen officiated at the official launch of the Supporting Grassroots Programme 2020 at Tanoa International Hotel.

He said the grassroots programme is about supporting youth in making sure they have jerseys and fees to compete in 7s tournament.

Breen said without sponsors it is impossible to achieve goals.

“Without sponsors supporting any programme, it’s impossible to achieve your goals.

“Quite often if they want to sponsor the national team or the real superstars they must be looking at the grassroots. These superstars have to come from somewhere.”

He said the grassroots programme is important as it supports the youths and gives them opportunities to participate in tournament.

“The grassroots programme is about supporting the youths that haven’t had the opportunities.

“By making sure that they have jerseys to compete, by making sure they have the money to pay for the entry fees to be able to participate in the 7s tournament.

“Having the support is going to make all things possible but at the same time you have to do your part.”

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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