Having only picked up the sport a few years ago while serving in the British Army, Noame Komaitai’s rapid rise through the rugby ranks is a testament to her talent and impact on the field after being named in the Fijiana XV for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Time stood still.

The stage is set for two blockbuster Vodafone Deans U18 semifinals next week at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka, with Ratu Kadavulevu School facing Suva Grammar School, and Natabua High School taking on Nasinu Secondary School.

Two sets of sisters will don the white jersey for the Fijiana XV as they gear up for the Women’s Rugby World Cup in England later this month, a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted family ties that run through the veins of Fijian rugby.

Vodafone Fijiana XV speedster and 2024 Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women’s rookie of the year Atelaite Buna has been dropped while four players from the Fijiana 7s program make the cut for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.

Nasinu Secondary School gained sweet revenge over Queen Victoria School, advancing from their Vodafone Deans U18 quarterfinal after a 20–20 draw, winning on the countback for scoring more tries.

Natabua High School snatched a dramatic 20–17 victory over Marist Brothers High School in their Vodafone Deans U18 quarterfinal, with Suliasi Totopo landing a match-winning penalty on the stroke of full-time.

Nasinu Secondary School has secured their place in the under-19 Vodafone Deans semifinals after overcoming Ratu Kadavulevu School 25–15 in a tough quarterfinal clash at Prince Charles Park in Nadi.

Suva Grammar School produced a stirring second-half comeback to defeat Lelean Memorial School 27–24 in their Vodafone Deans U18 quarterfinal.

Ratu Navula College has booked their place in the Vodafone Deans Under-19 semifinals after a hard-fought 30–24 victory over Ratu Simione Matanitobua College in a thrilling quarterfinal at Prince Charles Park in Nadi.

Ratu Kadavulevu School will feature in next week’s Vodafone Deans under 18 semifinals after missing out last year following their 34-7 win over Cuvu College in the quarterfinal at Church Park in Lautoka.

Tailevu North College has booked their place in the Vodafone Deans Under-19 semifinals after a narrow 18–17 victory over Naitasiri Secondary School in a closely fought quarterfinal at Prince Charles Park in Nadi.