Challenging year for Coastland women

The Coastland (formerly Nanuku­loa) women's rugby team hopes to finish in a better position than last year's quarterfinal exit in the Roy­al Tea Ranadi Cup competition.

They lost to Ba, 15-102 during the knockout stage.

Captain Taufa Tuidraki said there has been a lot of challenges faced; however, they remain confident that it would be a great season.

"Many girls lost the courage to play mid-season, some due to injuries while some just found rugby tough," Tuid­raki said.

"We also have a few students on the side who has to focus on studies.

"While rugby gives us an opportunity to showcase our talent even if we're not smart academically, many did not take up their chances.

"I have been challenging the squad this year to learn from all that hap­pened last year.

Tuidraki said other challenges in­cluded family issues.

'We have a good squad this year which includes school leavers and women from around Ra. This is a good oppor­tunity for them to showcase their tal­ent.

"We are looking forward to a great season."

The Royal Tea Ranadi competition kicks off on Saturday.

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