NATIONAL PLAYERS DOMINATE RAIWAQA U19 TOURNAMENT

SUVA - Raiwaqa Basketball Players Youth Association ended their first U19 Tournament on a high note with Zodiac taking home the Boys Title and Gaunisala taking home the girls title.

The 2 day event turned into 3 when the weather over the weekend was not in their favour, however that did not dampen their spirits.

Players and spectators came out in numbers at Eds Court Raiwaqa for the last day of the tournament with the winners walking away with $150 (one hundred & fifty dollars) and bragging rights.

In the girls category key players for Guanisala included National U15 Vice Captain Estelle Kainamoli and current National Womens training squad members Mafi Foiakau & Kalesi Tawake in the fourth quarter showed their experience to younger Mighty Force team ending the finals with 41 – 25.

Kainamoli mentioned that it was a competitive tournament and they need more tournaments for age categories.

Mighty Force was made of a younger set of girls that were part of the National U15 Girls Team including Captain Moana Liebregts with her fellow national reps Ranadi Koroi and Elenoa Kuboutawa.

Liebgrets who is also currently training with the National Womens Team preparing for the Pacific Games in Samoa says ‘ the competition is much tougher and it gives more opportunities for youths to play together’ She also added that atmosphere is totally different and very positive.

Vika Kuboutawa the Youth President said it was the first U19 Tournament to be organised by the committee and they are very happy with the outcome.

The initial idea of the U19 tournament is to help prepare and enhance the skills of our robust youth for the upcoming High School Basketball Championship. The tournament also encourages youths to develop friendships on and off court while learning more about the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship.’

The association plans to host a 3 x 3 tournament in May.

Final names for players travelling to the Pacific Games will be announced on the 1st of May by Team Fiji officials.