The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has initiated discussions with landowners in Lauwaki, Vuda, to secure approximately 40 acres for a proposed new stadium. This development comes as part of a broader plan aimed at addressing the ongoing issue of limited playing grounds for rugby in Fiji. During a recent annual general meeting held at Novotel in Lami, FRU board chairman John Sanday highlighted the necessity of creating adequate infrastructure to ensure that rugby matches can be hosted on home turf.
Sanday noted, “The bigger part of it is there’s not enough grounds for us to hold our games… We are now looking at how we can better position or play our games on our own ground.” This effort is not limited to the western side of the island; discussions are ongoing regarding an additional 100 acres on the eastern side as well.
To ensure the successful execution of this project, a key focus will be how to structure financing and develop a sustainable business model. This initiative underscores the FRU’s commitment to enhancing rugby infrastructure in the country, which has been a long-standing challenge impacting domestic competitions.
Previous articles have emphasized similar narratives, particularly regarding the FRU’s ambition to improve rugby facilities, essential for hosting prestigious international events such as the HSBC SVNS Series and potentially even the Rugby World Cup matches. As the FRU continues to seek funding and support for these projects, there is a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s rugby future. A robust stadium development project is seen as a vital step not only for local engagement but also for fostering a stronger rugby culture that can attract international tourists and celebrate Fiji’s rich sporting heritage.
Continued investment in sports infrastructure reflects a forward-thinking approach that can elevate Fiji Rugby on a global scale, creating opportunities for both players and fans.
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