Fiji Rugby Rolls Out Safeguarding Policies Across Grassroots

FIJI Rugby is leading the charge in establishing a safer and more inclusive environment for players and staff within the rugby community. In a significant development, board members of the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) were formally introduced to the FRU Workplace Harassment, Gender-Based Violence (GBV), and Safeguarding Policies during their recent board meeting held last Saturday.

This initiative follows the official adoption of the aforementioned policies last year, marking a pivotal moment in the quest for comprehensive reform within the sport. The policies were formally rolled out to the staff and management at Rugby House during an induction last week. Additionally, key staff members designated as “focal points” have recently completed rigorous training to facilitate the successful implementation of these vital safeguards.

The FRU is committed to ensuring that these protective measures extend down to the grassroots level, aiming for every player and member of the rugby community to experience a safer environment. “Our goal is to extend these initiatives down to the grassroots level, ensuring that every player and member of the rugby community benefits from a safer environment,” the Union stated, reflecting its dedication to the well-being of everyone involved in the sport.

The development and execution of these policies have been shaped by a committed team of professionals, including Tevita Seruilumi, Tessa Walsh (Consultant), and Tirahni Uluinakauvadra (Rugby Participation & Pathways Programs Manager for Oceania Region). The Union stresses that this endeavor is not solely focused on on-field performance, but fundamentally rooted in the values of respect, equality, and safety.

Through the establishment of structured national pathways, Fiji Rugby aspires to create a future where the sport is genuinely accessible and secure for all participants. This commitment not only enhances the sport’s integrity but also fosters a community where inclusivity is prioritized, serving as a positive example for rugby federations worldwide.