Ba Rugby is poised to receive significant advantages if they secure a pre-season match against the Fijian Drua. Gaby Kautoga, the secretary of the Ba Rugby Union, shared insights on this potential opportunity during an interview, highlighting how such a match would uplift the players’ confidence as they face athletes they admire. He emphasized the importance of experience, stating that playing against the Drua would provide valuable exposure for Ba’s athletes.
Kautoga praised the Fijian Drua’s initiative in supporting provincial unions, noting that this collaboration not only benefits the Drua as they prepare for their upcoming season but also aids in the development of local teams like Ba Rugby. With the delay in the season schedule, he believes this is an ideal time for their players to gain crucial game time. One of Ba Rugby’s aspirations is to elevate the standard of play in their region.
Additionally, Kautoga pointed out the need for players to maintain focus, especially during the festive season, which can often lead to distractions. He mentioned that local players have the potential to impress the coaching staff of the Drua, with hopes of recruitment if they perform well.
In other matters, Kautoga expressed Ba Rugby’s intention to address jersey sponsorship issues at the upcoming Fiji Rugby Annual General Meeting in Suva. He advocated for an open sponsorship model, allowing the team to wear their own branded merchandise rather than being restricted to one supplier’s design. A previous jersey issue led to their disqualification in a Skipper Cup match against Suva, which they aim to rectify.
Kautoga also raised concerns regarding communication with Fiji Rugby, mentioning delays in receiving information that impacts their preparation. He underscored the challenges of traveling from Ba to Suva and the need for prompt communication to ensure effective teamwork and planning.
Overall, Ba Rugby is taking proactive steps towards enhancing their performance while fostering local talent, and the potential partnership with the Fijian Drua speaks to their commitment to growth and improvement in the sport.
This proactive approach not only motivates the players but also sets a positive tone for future collaborations in Fiji’s rugby landscape, making it a promising time for the sport in the region.
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