Sports play an important role in nation-building as well as building links between different cultures that shape a vibrant, diverse society.
Land Force Commander, Colonel Mosese Tikoitoga said that as a passionate believer in the transformational power of rugby, he is committed to building a culture of sports in the army that stretches from the grassroots to the elite.
Sharing these sentiments to the Army team at the Rabuka Hall during this morning’s thanksgiving service, Colonel Tikoitoga also praised the successful win by the Army team at the recent Sukuna Bowl.
“You have won the Sukuna Bowl, now how can you translate this win to build our nation,” Colonel Tikoitoga said.
"You have showed courage and dedication on the field and so we are dedicating this win to all our colleagues, our families, friends and the nation. They are happy with this victory,” Colonel Tikoitoga said.
Joined by hundreds of officers of all ranks, the defending team was reminded that victory was dedicated to all members of the force who had fought for peace and for those who had helped build the nation.
The team then moved down to the Tuvasu Hall where a traditional ceremony was accorded to inspirational Naitasiri coach, Reverend Joji Rinakama and former Flying Fijian Bill Gadolo for boosting their team.
Rinakama had mentored the team to a 14-0 win last year and repeated the feat this year.
Army team manager Major Penioni Naliva said that they were fortunate to have received their (Rinakama and Gadolo’s) services as they had been giving normal coaching assistance to the team.
Rev Rinakama and Gadolo were presented with specially cased Army jerseys by Colonel Tikoitoga as a token of appreciation from the defending champions.