The 2026 Vodafone Deans Competition was officially launched today at Gospel High School, with the Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro highlighting the competition’s long-standing role in shaping young athletes and strengthening school rugby across Fiji.

Addressing students, officials, sponsors, and stakeholders, the Minister acknowledged the continued support of the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union, Fiji Rugby, Vodafone Fiji, participating schools, and sponsors for their contributions to the growth of the sport.

He said the competition serves as more than just a rugby tournament, providing young people with opportunities to develop valuable life skills through participation, teamwork, and healthy competition.

Now entering its 87th year, the Deans Competition remains one of Fiji’s most respected and enduring school sporting events, giving generations of students the chance to proudly represent their schools.

The Minister also noted the steady growth in participation, with the number of schools involved increasing from 117 in 2024 to 121 in 2025, while even higher participation is anticipated for the 2026 season.

He encouraged schools and supporters to uphold the values of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship, emphasizing the importance of maintaining positive rivalries that reflect the true spirit of school rugby in Fiji.