The dates for the Fiji Finals in 2025 have once again conflicted with a Super Rugby Pacific match set to take place in Suva during May. The Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Association is currently collaborating with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua to find a resolution to this scheduling issue.
The Fijian Drua announced its home games for the upcoming 2025 season on September 30, 2024, while the Ministry of Education revealed this year’s school term dates shortly after, on October 8. Traditionally, the Coca-Cola Games occur in the first week of May, connecting with the school term break, which in 2025 is slated for May 2. Consequently, this leads to a scheduling conflict, as May 3, the final day of the Fiji Finals, coincides with a match between the Fijian Drua and the Reds at HFC Bank Stadium.
Fijian Drua’s general manager, Shane Hussein, highlighted their ongoing dialogues with the Fiji Secondary School Athletics Association and the Fiji Sports Council to devise a mutually acceptable solution. He expressed optimism over recent discussions, noting that several options are being considered, including the potential for rescheduling the Fiji Finals to earlier in the week.
Coke Games competition director Biu Colati also emphasized the positive nature of the discussions, suggesting that accommodating both events could enhance attendance and enjoyment for sports fans. A resolution is expected soon, potentially reaching a conclusive agreement by the first week of January.
Historically, this is not the first instance of such a scheduling conflict; a similar dilemma occurred in 2023, which resulted in adjustments to the Coca-Cola Games schedule.
This collaborative effort between sporting organizations reflects the commitment to ensuring that both events can proceed in a manner that benefits participants and fans alike. As discussions continue, there is hope that a workable arrangement will emerge, allowing both the Fiji Finals and the Super Rugby match to flourish without detracting from one another.
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