The Fiji Rugby League is set to establish its own academy, as announced by Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata in a recent interview. Kativerata discussed the 32-year history of rugby league in Fiji and shared plans for an academy aimed at players aged 15 and older, encompassing both boys and girls.
He stated, “We are going to start our own Fiji Rugby League Academy here, for the ages 15 and above, boys and girls.” He emphasized that there is already a pathway connecting local talent to NRL clubs, allowing players who excel in local competitions to advance directly to the professional level.
“We have a plan in place for the next four to five years, and we need to adhere to this plan as we move forward,” Kativerata added.
As the Fiji Bati prepare for the upcoming Pacific Championships, a key goal is to promote rugby league within local communities, targeting the grassroots level. Kativerata intends to inspire the next generation of players who could potentially represent Fiji as either Bati or Bulikula players.
He remarked, “Rugby league will provide them with similar opportunities as rugby; while not everyone can wear the Drua jersey, there are NRL clubs available to them.”
In addition, Kativerata mentioned that the championships would feature exciting games over a fortnight, with both men’s and women’s teams competing. The Bati are scheduled to face the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in Suva on October 19.