Paradise Beverages is enhancing its support for grassroots rugby in Fiji by increasing cash prizes for clubs participating in the upcoming Fiji Bitter Sevens series. This initiative aims to ease registration and other expenses, thereby encouraging more clubs to take part in future tournaments.

Alfio Tekavei, the company’s sponsorship and events specialist, acknowledged the persistent issue of late registrations among clubs, particularly during back-to-back tournaments. He stated that many grassroots teams rely on fundraising to secure their spots, which often leads to financial struggles that result in either late registrations or no-shows on game day. To mitigate this, Paradise Beverages is expanding prize distributions to include teams that reach the plate semifinals, ensuring that many more clubs receive recognition and financial assistance for their efforts.

The Fiji Bitter Sevens series has a well-established history, with Paradise Beverages committing over $300,000 to this season. This support not only reflects the company’s dedication to rugby but also helps nurture and develop future talents who may aspire to join national teams. The series, which spans from October to March, will feature twelve tournaments held across various locations.

Rovereto Nayacalevu, CEO of Fiji Rugby Union, expressed gratitude towards Paradise Beverages for nearly five decades of backing local rugby initiatives, emphasizing the positive impact this sponsorship has had on the community and the sport’s growth in Fiji.

With this proactive approach, clubs can look forward to a more supportive environment, fostering greater participation and growth in the rugby community. The upcoming series promises to be an exciting opportunity for teams and fans alike.