Ba Rugby stands to gain significantly if they have the opportunity to compete in a pre-season match against the Fijian Drua, according to Gaby Kautoga, the secretary of the Ba Rugby Union. Kautoga expressed in an interview that such a match would serve to lift the players’ spirits and enhance their morale as they have the chance to compete against more experienced athletes whom they admire.
He lauded the Fijian Drua’s initiative, highlighting that it’s not only beneficial for the Drua as they prepare for the upcoming season but also provides valuable experience to provincial union teams. Kautoga noted that with a delay in the season schedule, it is a perfect opportunity to offer their players some competitive game time.
Kautoga conveyed that this exposure would allow players to experience different playing conditions, helping them remain focused during the festive season, when distractions often arise. He emphasized the importance of nurturing locally based players to elevate their performance levels.
Moreover, he mentioned that players should see this as a chance for potential recruitment by the Drua if they impress the coaching staff during the match.
In other developments, Kautoga indicated that Ba Rugby aims to resolve jersey sponsorship issues during the upcoming Annual General Meeting with Fiji Rugby. He proposed that the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) allow open sponsorships, enabling teams to wear their own branded gear, like BLK merchandise, rather than be limited to specific brand designs. He pointed out that this sponsorship flexibility is crucial for promoting their supporters.
Ba Rugby faced challenges in communication with Rugby House, with delays in responses impacting preparations. Kautoga expressed concerns about the recent schedule changes, suggesting they could disrupt the team’s training plans.
In summary, Ba Rugby is looking forward to the potential benefits of a pre-season match against the Fijian Drua, which promises to enhance player experience and morale. As they navigate sponsorship and communication challenges, there is hope for a productive dialogue with the FRU at the upcoming AGM. This proactive approach could further elevate the team’s standing in rugby and inspire the local talent in Ba.
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