Long journey, big dreams for Burenitu rugby players

Travelling more than 50 kilometres from their village did not stop students from Burenitu Village School from taking part in the two-day Serua Rugby Kaji Festival in Navua.

The small rural school was among eight schools competing at Rampur Primary School, with players hoping to impress selectors ahead of next month's national championships.

Head of School Veleni Dakuwaqa said this was only the school's second appearance at the tournament.

Lomary Primary School players and supporters during the two-day Kaji Rugby festival at Rampur Primary School grounds, Navua on July 16, 2026.

Photo: Leon Lord

He brought three teams to the festival — the Under-10 boys, Under-10 girls and Under-12 boys.

"Our school is very small, so our Under-13 and Under-14 players are combined with other schools," Dakuwaqa said.

"We hope that some of them will be selected for the divisional team following these two days of rugby.

"The only advice to them is to enjoy the tournament and showcase their talent because we do not get much competition and exposure on stages like this."

Ratu Latianara Primary School Under-10 girls during the two-day Kaji Rugby festival at Rampur Primary School grounds, Navua on July 16, 2026.

Photo: Leon Lord

Despite limited resources, Burenitu continues to nurture young rugby players.

"We train on a small paddock at our school. There are no proper training grounds," he said.

"This is part of rugby development and winning is the last thing.

"We hope these youngsters will learn as much as they can and become successful rugby players in the future."

Feedback: leon.lord@fijisun.com.fj