Ba Provincial Free Bird Institute has welcomed the introduction of the new player recruitment rule for the Vodafone Deans rugby competition, saying it creates greater opportunities for students to develop their potential.
Under the revised rules, teams that qualify for the national eliminations, or quarter-finals, can recruit up to six players from within their zone to strengthen their squads for the remainder of the competition.
Principal Isei Naqia says the school supports the initiative because it aligns with the broader goal of student development.
Naqia says the rule creates opportunities for students to continue participating in the competition while developing their talents and skills.
Insert: Naqia - This is an opportunity Aug 04
He says the school is making full use of the opportunity now that it has been implemented and will continue working closely with its coaches, teachers and managers throughout the competition.
Speaking on his side's preparations for the Deans quarter finals this weekend, Naqia says the competition is one of several platforms created by the Ministry of Education to support the holistic development of students.
He says rugby provides students with an opportunity to showcase their abilities while preparing them for future opportunities.
Naqia says the team has learnt valuable lessons from last year's campaign, particularly after one of its students suffered an injury during a rugby league competition.
As a result, he says the focus this year has been on ensuring players are physically and mentally prepared for the demands of the contact sport.
Naqia acknowledges that financial constraints remain a challenge, but says the school and the wider community have continued to work together to provide students with the opportunity to compete.
He says reaching the quarter final stages of the competition is another chance for students to demonstrate their potential both on and off the field.
Ba Pro have qualified for the quarter-finals this weekend after they eliminated QVS from the Eliminations Competition last week.
Other schools that have qualified for the U18 quarter-finals are defending champions Ratu Kadavulevu School, Lelean Memorial School, Suva Grammar School, Cuvu College, Ratu Navula College, Ra High School, and Nasinu Secondary School.
The Deans National Quarters will be held at three venues for the first time this year.
Officials have confirmed that the three quarter finals will be held in Suva, Tavua and Savusavu.
