Sporting achievements for all Western schools were celebrated in a grand way in Lautoka today as thousands turned up to show their support to the schools.
The achievements included the Rugby League Under 19 champions Ba Provincial Free Bird Institute, Kamil College as the current defending champions of the U19 soccer tournament, Natabua High School national badminton winning teams, and the Coke Games 2015 boys and Girls winning teams Natabua High and Jasper Williams High School.
Chief Guest and Assistant Minister for Youth and Sports Hon. Iliesa Delana said the win by Jasper and Natabua High was significant to the whole community of Lautoka, surrounding towns and the whole of the Western Division. “The Western division is known for producing great rugby ambassadors and football players alike.It has in the past, today and I believe that the achievements of these two prominent Western schools is proof that we still can produce more great sportsmen and women alike in the future,” he said.
“I acknowledge the skills of the teachers in recognising raw talents and turning them into champions. With the technical expertise and knowledge when effectively applied, the students performed to their best and today we are here to celebrate all of that.Your spirit of teamwork has produced results and I hope that these results will also be reflected inside the classrooms academically.”
Hon. Delana who was joined by two former Natabua scholars and current Minister for Women – Hon. Sofia Rosy Akbar and Minister for Industry and Trade – Hon.Faiyaz Koya congratulated the schools and urged the students to continue to excel not only academically but also in sports. “Your courage to perform at the highest national level despite your lack of facilities and exposure is indeed a display of courage and determination. I urge you to continue to excel in school and also out on the field to be able to know your true potentials,” Hon. Delana added.
(Photos from this event can be accessed at the Fijian Government’s facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/FijianGovernment?fref=ts )
DEPTFO