The Fiji Rugby League is set to establish its own academy, according to Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata. In a recent interview, Kativerata discussed the league’s 32-year history in Fiji and announced plans for an academy aimed at young athletes aged 15 and older, including both boys and girls.
He emphasized that the academy will create a clear pathway for players to advance to NRL clubs, stating, “If they perform well in the local competition, it’s just one step to the top and on to the NRL clubs from Fiji.” Kativerata also mentioned that a well-structured plan is already in place for the next four to five years, which they aim to follow diligently.
As the Fiji Bati prepare for the Pacific Championships, Kativerata highlighted their commitment to promoting rugby league at the grassroots level across communities in the country. The goal is to inspire a new generation of young boys and girls who could potentially represent Fiji as Bati or Bulikula players in the future.
“Rugby league will provide them with the same opportunities as rugby; not everyone can wear the Drua jersey, but there are NRL clubs available for them,” he noted. Kativerata also assured fans that they can look forward to a fortnight of exciting matches during the championship, featuring both men’s and women’s teams. The Fiji Bati are scheduled to play against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in Suva on October 19.