North rushes in for Savusavu 7s
THE 14th Fiji Bitter Savusavu 7s tournament is living up to its theme ‘Inspiring grassroots’ before the 2022 edition kicks off at Rt Ganilau Park from July 14-16.
Next month’s event which will be contested by 32 men’s teams, 16 under-21 sides and eight women’s teams in rugby, coupled with volleyball and netball competitions, has attracted a bulk of teams from around Vanua Levu.
As registration closed on midnight Monday, most sides are from the North, said tournament co-ordinator Mala Yamaivava.
“An interesting turn of events in 7s rugby,” Yamaivava said.
“Some of the big names in the game are not in. So far, the top side which has been confirmed is Raiwasa-Taveuni which might not be with some of its big names because of national duties except for Taniela Yaya.
“Most of the teams are from Vanua Levu plus Narocake from Ovalau which has been training since their participation in the Fiji Bitter Yalovata 7s at Levuka.
“It is good to see that most villagebased teams are gunning for the main prizemoney. Their participation will help improve the standard of the game in the North.”
He said teams such as Savuiqali Marine, the Savusavu Rugby Union’s Tui Nasavusavu Trophy holders, were among sides in the Paradise Beveragessponsored event.
“We have Caucau 7s team from Suweni, Cakaudrove, Lami Cavaliers from Suva, Saunaka, and Mataqe from Cuvu.”
Meanwhile, the event started on a good note last week with a clean-up campaign along Savusavu Town.
“There was a big turnout and people were excited because it’s rare for organisers of a sporting event to help outside sports.
“We were joined by players, children, club officials and even business owners. Everyone pitched in and we are planning a clean-up campaign at Savusavu Hospital next week.
“Excitement is building up and everyone is helping spread the awareness that the Fiji Bitter Savusavu 7s is coming and everyone will benefit,” Yamaivava said from Sausavu Town yesterday.