Ba Rugby Union is working on a proposal to implement an injury insurance scheme for all players involved at the Club, Tikina, and Provincial levels. Kautoga, a spokesperson for the initiative, explained that every active player in the province will need to register and pay a nominal annual fee of $10 to be eligible to play.
The collected fees will be utilized to cover all medical expenses related to injuries sustained while participating in any tournament organized by the Ba Rugby Union or representing one of the three Ba teams. This initiative is inspired by the successful insurance system employed by Fiji Secondary Schools, which has significantly improved player welfare in rugby.
The proposed insurance plan will encompass medical costs for injuries, transportation to medical facilities, and treatment until the player fully recovers. Additionally, it will cover medical services for tournaments sponsored by Ba Rugby, including doctors, nurses, medical equipment, and standby vehicles. There will also be provisions for modest payouts in cases of disability or, in rare situations, death.
Kautoga emphasized that all player contributions will be directed into a dedicated account at the Ba Rugby Union’s bank, ensuring that the funds are safeguarded for medical purposes only.
This proposal reflects a significant commitment to player safety and welfare in the sport. Such initiatives not only protect players from the financial burden of injuries but also underline the importance of health and safety measures within rugby.
Overall, this effort by Ba Rugby Union demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding athletes, fostering a healthier and more secure environment for both current and future players.
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