“He (Seruvakula) is the best coach in the Pacific at the moment. We are learning a lot from him as he is also an old boy of the school.
Vodafone Deans Trophy champions 2024 Queen Victoria School. Photo: Leon Lord
The assistance of former Flying Fijians forwards coach Senirusi Seruvakula provided the much-needed catalyst in Queen Victoria School’s 27-13 win over Nasinu Secondary School in the Vodafone Deans Trophy grand-final.
This was revealed to SUNsports on Saturday night by QVS Under-18 head coach Josaia Waiwalu.
“He (Seruvakula) is our technical coach,” Waiwalu said when asked of Seruvakula’s involvement in the team.
“He (Seruvakula) is the best coach in the Pacific at the moment. We are learning a lot from him as he is also an old boy of the school.
“We are grateful to have him in the team.”
Earlier this year Seruvakula was short-listed for the Flying Fijians head coach’s job.
He coached the Fijian Drua to win the Australia National Rugby Championship in 2018. Seruvakula also coached the Fiji women’s rugby team to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2022 where they beat South Africa 21-17.
Former Flying Fijians forwards coach Senirusi Seruvakula.
Last year, he was the Flying Fijians forwards coach to the Rugby World Cup that reached the quarterfinal.
Waiwalu said they had come prepared to defend the Deans Trophy against a formidable opponent.
He said throughout the week, the team’s main plan for the final was to keep possession and it paid off.
“We talked about faith the start of the year and we’ve finally witnessed that.”
Waiwalu added the side is made up of students from different walks of life.
“We play for one other as there a lot of unfortunate stories and we formed a bond to play this season for each other,” he said.
He added the win means a lot to QVS since this is the 25th time.
“The Deans (Trophy) is a property of the Tailevu schools,” Waiwalu added.
Why Drua? QVS captain tells
Meanwhile, QVS first-five eighth and captain Anare Tabakaucoro’s goal is to further his rugby career.
“My plan is to play for the (Fijian) Drua,” he told SUNsports.
“I want to play (professionally) and stay in Fiji to be close to my mother.”
Tabakaucoro played an instrumental role in the final as he held his composure and kept a tight control of the game.
“This is my last year and I want to give back to the school.
“Our parents have been very inspirational.
“Most of us (players) are raised single handed and we as a team dedicate this win to them (parents).”
Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj
