The Ba Rugby Union has announced the appointment of Ben Tora as the new head coach for the upcoming domestic rugby competition. This update was confirmed by the Union’s secretary, Gabby Kautoga, in a statement made yesterday. Tora takes over from Vilimoni Delasau, a former Flying Fijian star winger, who has transitioned to the role of Ba Rugby ambassador due to ongoing health issues from past injuries. Despite stepping back from coaching, Delasau will continue to support the team in his new capacity.
Kautoga noted that Tora underwent a thorough selection process before his appointment was finalized. In addition to Tora’s role, Waisale Tikomailepanoni has been named the head coach of the Ba women’s rugby team, while Josaia Tuwai will continue to lead the Ba Under-20 side.
At a recent Special General Meeting, Kautoga shared that Ba Rugby has developed contingency plans for club games in the event that the Fiji Rugby Union changes the schedule for the Skipper Cup competition to August next year. He emphasized the organization’s intent to enhance both the competitiveness of their clubs and the administrative aspects, aiming to raise the number of participating clubs from 32 to 40 in the next season.
Kautoga expressed optimism about their achievements so far, but acknowledged that significant improvements are necessary to elevate performance within the next three years. The team’s goal for the upcoming season is to secure a spot in the top five of the Skipper Cup, building on their success in previous seasons where they managed to finish in the top eight, thereby avoiding relegation.
This new chapter for Ba Rugby Union signifies a commitment to growth and development, both on and off the field. With new leadership in place and strategic goals set for the future, there is a hopeful outlook for the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons.
In summary, the Ba Rugby Union is reinforcing its management and coaching structure with the aim of enhancing performance and administrative efficiency, looking to foster a competitive rugby environment in Fiji.
Leave a comment