Coach Saumi outline goals for Nasinu’s historic December tour

The participation of the Nasinu Sec­ondary School (NSS) Under-18 rug­by team in the World Invitational Rugby Festival in Abu Dhabi is a historic moment for the school and extends beyond just winning the tournament.

This was shared by super coach Nacanieli Saumi as they countdown to December 14.

Saumi who coached Nasinu for only three months and three weeks led these young men to their second consecutive Deans tro­phy final at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva.

Nasinu lost to Ratu Kadavulevu School, 53-15.

He said the tournament will exposure the players to different playing styles, tech­niques and strategies at the international level.

“The key goals set for this tournament focus on exposure, learning, and cultural exchange, which are vital for the holistic development of the players and the future of the school’s rugby programme,” Saumi said.

“This experience is crucial for their devel­opment as athletes, allowing them to meas­ure themselves against some of the best young talents globally, refine their skills, and develop greater tactical awareness.”

The Savudrodro, Savusavu, Cakaudrove native added that the tournament offers a unique opportunity for the team to engage with different cultures, enhancing their understanding and appreciation of diver­sity beyond the rugby field.

These cultural exchange promotes values such as respect, discipline, teamwork, and humility, which are as important as physi­cal skills in rugby and life.

“It prepares the players to be not only bet­ter athletes but also responsible and cultur­ally aware individuals.

“The knowledge and experiences gained from this international exposure will em­power the current players to become am­bassadors of the sport and culture.

“They will be equipped to share their learnings, techniques, and broadened perspectives with the younger players at NSS, effective­ly mentoring and inspiring the next gen­eration to uphold and advance the school’s rugby legacy.”

He added that their participation abroad would strengthen team unity and fosters resilience by facing new challenges togeth­er in an unfamiliar environment.

“The shared experience builds camarade­rie and a strong team spirit, reinforcing the collective “we not me” mentality essential for success in rugby.

“While winning is always a target, the broader goals of this tournament are cen­tered on growth, experience, and laying a foundation that supports sustained ex­cellence.

“This participation marks a step forward in NSS’s journey to compete regu­larly on the international stage, breaking socio-economic boundaries, and opening pathways for its players to pursue high­er levels of competition and education through rugby.

“In essence, this tournament is about equipping the players with skills, knowl­edge, and values that transcend the game, fostering a legacy of excellence, cultural pride, and mentorship that will resonate at Nasinu Secondary School for years to come.

Saumi added the tour represents hope for every student who dreamt of something bigger, proving that no matter where you come from, with the right attitude, humil­ity, and faith, you can stand on the world stage.

He acknowledged and thanked school principal Naisa Cama Toko, teachers and auxiliary staff of NSS for their unwavering commitment to their rugby programme.

“Their support through academic flex­ibility, encouragement, and teamwork has been crucial to the boys’ success.

“To our parents, your sacrifices are deeply appreciated. Many of you continue to give beyond your means — helping with meals, transportation, or moral support.

“You are the silent heroes behind this team’s achievements.”

He also thanked the old scholars, Nasinu community and supporters whose support have strengthened the journey and in­spired players to uphold the school’s legacy with pride.

“As we prepare for the World Invitational Rugby Festival in Abu Dhabi, we warmly invite sponsors, supporters, and well-wish­ers to join us in this historic journey.

“Your contribution will not only assist with the tour’s logistics and expenses but will also invest in the lives of young Fijian men who are striving to represent their school and their country with honor.

“This is more than a rugby trip it’s a trans­formational opportunity to learn, grow, and showcase Fiji’s raw, God-given talent on a global platform.

“Together, we can con­tinue to build hope and a brighter future for these young men, for Nasinu Secondary School, and for Fijian rugby as a whole.”

The World Invitational Rugby festival will be held from December 14 to 20 at the Abu Dhabi Cricket and Sports Hub.