Fiji Bitter has reaffirmed its dedication to nurturing grassroots rugby in Fiji by launching the Fiji Bitter Malake 7s, which is the second leg of the Fiji Bitter 7s Series, at the Paradise Beverages offices in Suva.
The tournament was officially announced by coordinator Isoa Tute and Etrina Simpson, head of marketing for Fiji Bitter, who signed an agreement formalizing the sponsorship.
Tute expressed gratitude for the support from tournament sponsors, noting that Fiji Bitter is continuing its sponsorship into the third year. This year’s competition will feature 32 teams in the men’s category, 24 in the 18-U21 category, and eight women’s teams.
“This year presents another opportunity for us to accomplish our plans for the tournament focused on rugby development and initiatives in the villages,” Tute remarked.
The development efforts include the second phase of rebuilding the local Methodist Church on Malake Island, which suffered significant damage from past cyclones.
Simpson highlighted that the tournament not only showcases emerging rugby talent but also plays a crucial role in community sustainability efforts. “The Malake 7s not only showcases rugby talent, but it also significantly contributes to supporting local sustainability, which is something we at Fiji Bitter take pride in,” she stated.
The Fiji Bitter Malake 7s will take place starting tomorrow and conclude this Saturday at the Narauyabe Sports Ground in Rakiraki.