Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka met with Rugby Australia Chief Executive Phil Waugh in Suva today to expand the collaboration in sports diplomacy and development between Fiji and Australia, coinciding with a landmark women’s rugby Test match on Fijian territory.
The discussions included key officials from both countries’ rugby unions, such as Fiji Rugby Union President John Sanday and CEO Rovereto Nayacalevu, alongside Rugby Australia’s General Manager of Women’s Rugby Jilly Collins and Head of Pacific Partnerships Daniel Millis. Prime Minister Rabuka emphasized the enduring partnership between Fiji and Australia, stating, “The success of our Drua teams shows what’s possible when nations invest together in talent and community pride.”
Mr. Waugh reinforced this sentiment, noting ongoing joint initiatives to grow rugby through programs like PacificAusSports, which supports both the Fijian Drua’s men’s and women’s teams. “Our discussions explored new ways to deepen collaboration between our unions and governments,” he remarked, referencing the pivotal match between the Fijiana and Australian Wallaroos as part of the Vuvale Partnership’s spirit.
The highly anticipated clash between the Fijiana Drua and the Wallaroos is set for 5 PM tomorrow at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, following the earlier match between the Fijian Drua and the Queensland Reds at 2:05 PM.
This event is significant, marking the Fijiana’s first Test on home soil against such a strong opponent, and highlights the commitment to uplifting women’s rugby in Fiji. The focal point is not just competitive sport but fostering community support and engagement, particularly for women’s initiatives. The last encounter saw the Fijiana face substantial challenges, but this match symbolizes a crucial opportunity for growth and inspiration for future female athletes in the region.
As anticipation builds for this double-header, the collaboration between Fiji and Australia demonstrates a positive trajectory for rugby in Fiji, especially concerning women’s competitions, promising a bright future for the sport.
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