A group of young men known as the Village Boys is making waves in the local rugby scene, bringing together young men from all 14 provinces who have left home in search of a better future through the sport.
Team manager, Epeli Kotoilakeba says the team is made up mostly of players aged 19 to 22, all driven by the shared dream of using rugby as a pathway to success and stability.
Kotoilakeba says one of their biggest challenges is the emotional and practical toll of leaving their families and villages behind to settle in Suva.
He says many of the boys are staying with relatives, and some even live with him in Delainavesi, highlighting the sacrifices made by both the players and their families.
Kotoilakeba says that when they compete, it is usually only the players’ families who show up to cheer them on.
He adds however, their commitment is paying off and within just three years of developing their under-20s squad, several players have secured opportunities with rugby clubs in Georgia, Australia and France.
Kotoilakeba says these achievements reflect the strength, discipline, and resilience of his young players, and he hopes more youths from across Fiji will continue to find a pathway through rugby.
Last week, the Village Boys won their first Fiji Bitter 7s title at the Yalovata 7s.
He adds the team is now looking forward to the Wairiki 7s next Thursday to Saturday.
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