“I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent my school. I am looking forward to another week of playing as we have reached the final,” he added.
Marist Brothers High School Under-17 team after defeating Queen Victoria School on August 17, 2024. The side will face Ratu Kadavulevu in the Under-17 final on Saturday. Photo: Josua Buredua/Inset: Marist Brothers High School
Under-17 centre Lepani Bavai.
Photo: Josua Buredua
Marist Brothers High School Under-17 centre, Lepani Bavai, has been the target of the overseas scouts during the Vodafone Deans Trophy national finals.
Last Saturday, he was approached by three overseas scouts after helping MBHS win their semi-final clash against Queen Victoria School 17-15. They face two-time champions Ratu Kadavulevu School in this Saturday’s U17 final.
When approached by SUNsports, Bavai said he had to put the offers made the scouts on hold.
“I want to play rugby league,” he said.
“I believe it’s a calling for me and the credit goes to my parents for always being there for me from day one. They are always my number one supporter.”
Bavai said the semi-final clash against QVS was tough but he was grateful to his team-mates for keeping their composure throughout the game.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to represent my school. I am looking forward to another week of playing as we have reached the final,” he added.
MBHS U17 head coach Jonetani Rika told SUNsports they would go in as underdogs in the final.
“We still have a lot to do. Last weekend’s game was too tight and it was too close. We will need to improve on our mistakes especially this time against Ratu Kadavulevu School,” he said.
The Delainakaikai-based school has been the U17 champions twice and Rika said they would need to up their game.
He added that RKS is dubbed as a champion team (secondary schools rugby) and they respect that because of their great record.
“We will be the underdogs. It will be a David and Goliath battle but we are here for a reason and that is to mean business,” Rika added.
When asked about the team’s plan if they happen to win the U17 final and travel to Japan next year he said: “Right now, we have a job to do this weekend against RKS. It will be a good tussle and the boys know it. We haven’t made our plans yet because we want the students to continue their education after Deans and do well academically.”
The Makadru, Matuku in Lau native said the competition level of the Deans Trophy has improved compared to last year with unknown schools creating upsets.
Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj
