High school rugby fun festival concludes yesterday
BY TONY IROGA
The high school rugby fun festival within West Honiara constituency successfully concluded yesterday at the town ground rugby ground, marking a vibrant and engaging event for young athletes.
A total of five schools took part in the festival, bringing together students in a spirited display of rugby skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
The event highlighted the growing interest in rugby at the grassroots level and provided a valuable platform for students to learn and compete in a positive environment.
In an interview with Island Sun yesterday High School Rugby Festival Coordinator, David Siapu emphasised the importance of sports in schools.
He expressed satisfaction with the turnout and performance of the students, noting that the successful completion of the West Honiara program sets the stage for upcoming rugby festivals in other constituencies across the city.
Frinda Tai of St John School said the program was very important for students’ health and their understanding of sport.
“The training means much to me not only promote physical fitness but also help me gain knowledge, discipline, and teamwork skills through participation in rugby,” she said.
She also encourages students who did not participate in the program yesterday to take part in the upcoming school festival activities, assuring them that coaches and teachers are available to guide and support them.
Shirley Vilavuru of Kelyn School said rugby is a very good sport, describing her first experience playing the game as both exciting and educational.
“I found this rugby game very interesting, and I learned most of the basic skills of rugby 7 aside and look forward for the next training in the future,” she said.
Meanwhile, said Ronny Dofe of New Hope School said he learned a lot from the program especially about respecting each other and the basic skills of rugby 7s.
He said he looks forward to upcoming rugby training sessions and is excited to be a part of it.
Arnold Fika, a teacher at New Hope School, said the rugby tag festival is very important as students learn key values such as discipline, integrity, passion, solidarity, and sportsmanship.
Coordinator Siapu said the rugby festival has become a standout event for students across West Honiara constituency, showcasing not only young sporting talent but also promoting teamwork, discipline, and healthy lifestyles.
He said with support from the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) and key stakeholders, the festival brought together several schools in a vibrant display of grassroots rugby development.
“Students actively participated in matches and skill-based activities, gaining valuable experience while building confidence on and off the field,” he said.
Through rugby, students are encouraged to develop respect, unity, and a positive mindset.
Siapu said the next school festival program will be held for Central Honiara schools, followed by activities for schools in East Honiara constituency.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
