Deans quarterfinals and semifinals to be held at different venues

Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union's prestigious Vodafone Deans competition will see its 2026 national quarterfinals and semifinals hosted at different venues, a departure from the traditional single central location. Fiji Rugby Union Acting Chief Operations Officer Talemo Waqa confirmed the decision, stating the quarterfinals and semifinals will take place in Suva and Lautoka.

Waqa explained that the shift is rooted in the competition's focus on development. "In schools rugby, they talk about development first, so why not take the development to their respective zones," he said. This approach aims to foster rugby growth across Fiji's various regions. The Ministry of Education and the FSSRU have endorsed these changes, with the Eastern and Southern Zones agreeing to host their national matches at Suva's HFC Stadium.

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In schools rugby, they talk about development first, so why not take the development to their respective zones.

This decision also addresses fan demand, as Waqa noted that supporters in the North and West regions are eager to witness top schoolboy rugby teams like RKS, Lelean, QVS, Suva Grammar, and Marist Brothers compete. While details for the national quarterfinals are still being finalized, the move promises to increase accessibility and engagement for a wider audience.

The tournament schedule is set to culminate in the national finals on August 22nd at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Prior to that, the Deans eliminations will occur on August 1st, followed by the national quarterfinals on August 8th, and the semifinals one week later. Meanwhile, the Eastern Zone semifinals are scheduled for this weekend, featuring a notable Under-18 clash between Ratu Kadavulevu School and Queen Victoria School for the Lutubula Trophy.

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Fans in the North and West also want to watch the giants of school rugby like RKS, Lelean, QVS, Suva Grammar, Marist Brothers, and others.