WITH an aim to provide aspiring players with a clear pathway for development, combining on field training with invaluable online mentorship, life advice, and guidance, former national 7s stalwarts such as Isake Katonibau, Samisoni Viriviri, Vatemo Ravouvou, Emosi Mulevoro are ready to run the state-of-the-art 7s academy and rugby fields in Yako Village.
Run under the Stonewriters Legacy Institute the groundbreaking ceremony was held at Yako Village on Saturday.
Mulevoro, with his eyes reflecting the magnitude of the achievement, spoke passionately about the project and resonating with the dreams of countless young athletes, said this was a big step for 7s rugby.
“It’s no small feat. This will mold the future players of Fiji,” he said.
Ravouvou, a man of few words but profound impact on the field, expressed his conviction that the academy would undoubtedly elevate the standard of rugby 7s in Fiji.
The sentiment echoed through the crowd, a shared belief in the transformative power of such an institution.
Katonibau took a moment to acknowledge the vital support from Tui Bitoviko, Tui Nawaka, the Fiji Rugby Union, and the current 7s management team represented by Ben Gollings and
Viliame Satala.
“Their presence here today is a testament to the unity within Fijian rugby,” he said.
“We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sudev Sharma for his unwavering assistance in making this project a reality,” he said Katonibau’s words acknowledged the collaborative effort that brought the dream to life.
Meanwhile, former World Rugby 7s players of the year Viriviri, echoing the spirit of gratitude and thanked the vanua o Yako for their generosity in granting them land for the academy.
“This venture is a testament to the unity and support of our communities,” he said.
