The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) recently discussed the pressing matter of player registration during its Special General Meeting (SGM). Although this topic may seem straightforward, it has proven to be quite complex in Fiji.
One highlight of the ongoing discussions is Vatukoula’s recent promotion to the Skipper Cup, which followed their successful appeal against Namosi for fielding an improperly registered player. In a similar case, Ba Rugby had their appeal against Vatukoula rejected when it was discovered that a player representing Ba had also been playing for a club in Vatukoula.
The FRU is now focused on developing a comprehensive database for player registration, which aims to streamline the process and minimize the confusion and disputes that have plagued the league. Ba Rugby has been all too familiar with the burden of ongoing protests during the club season, consuming time and resources that could be better spent on player development.
BRU Secretary Gaby Kautoga expressed the need for enhanced administration among clubs to alleviate the strain of these issues. They have proposed a systematic approach to registering every participant in Ba Rugby, from players to coaches, each receiving a photo ID Card as part of this initiative. This not only helps with registration but also provides additional benefits such as insurance for participants.
In addition, there is a push for all 7s teams in Fiji to become officially registered with their respective provincial unions to standardize player participation. However, Kautoga acknowledged the challenges of this proposal, given the traditional nature of 7s teams in Fiji, where players often form ad-hoc squads.
Remarkably, despite these organizational challenges, there are encouraging examples of individual success in 7s rugby. For instance, players from Ba recently shone in the Fiji Bitter Wairiki 7s, contributing to Devo Babas’ victory and showcasing the talent present within the ranks.
Kautoga’s position is that while aiming for better organization is important, preserving the free movement of players within 7s rugby in Fiji might ultimately be beneficial for the sport’s growth and player development.
In conclusion, while the complexities surrounding player registration in Fiji rugby present challenges, the commitment to a structured improvement offers a pathway toward a more organized and thriving rugby community. This endeavor not only aims to reduce disputes but also fosters the talent within the sport, potentially leading to greater achievements on a national and international level.
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