The Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd (FRFU) held its General Assembly in Nadi, bringing together representatives from 29 member unions to outline a strategic vision for the future of rugby in Fiji. The four-hour meeting, led by newly elected Board Chairman John Sanday and the Board of Directors, focused on key areas such as governance, player welfare, and grassroots development.
During the assembly, each member union was represented by two delegates who had the opportunity to voice their concerns and suggestions. The discussions underscored the FRU leadership’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by rugby in Fiji while aiming to enhance performance domestically and on the international stage.
To improve governance, the FRFU is set to implement stricter compliance measures, ensuring that all member unions are fully operational. An online player registration system will be introduced to facilitate better tracking and transparency in player management. Additionally, player welfare was prioritized, with an emphasis on securing insurance and support at all competition levels.
A notable focus was placed on advancing women’s rugby, with strategies developed to create pathways from grassroots to elite levels, particularly in preparation for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup. The assembly also agreed to realign the 2025 rugby calendar to better match international schedules, thereby supporting domestic competitions such as the Skipper Cup and Marama Cup.
Looking ahead, the FRFU announced plans for a potential semi-professional competition based on the Colonial Cup format, expected to launch in 2026 with an emphasis on women’s rugby. The importance of securing sponsorships, especially for women’s competitions, was highlighted, with strategies to leverage land assets for rugby infrastructure development also discussed.
An innovative approach is being taken to integrate sports tourism and climate change partnerships into rugby programs, aiming to create funding opportunities and strengthen connections between schools, provincial unions, and elite teams.
Chairman Sanday reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised during the General Assembly and translating discussions into tangible actions. He expressed gratitude for the unity and dedication exhibited by all participating unions, emphasizing the collective goal of building a sustainable and prosperous future for rugby in Fiji, while continuing to honor its cultural legacy.
This initiative is a significant step toward revitalizing rugby in Fiji, showcasing a collective resolve to not only confront challenges but also to embrace opportunities for growth. It reflects a forward-thinking attitude that can lead to a brighter future for the sport in the island nation.
Summary: The FRFU’s General Assembly united 29 member unions to discuss governance, player welfare, and grassroots development, highlighting a commitment to elevate rugby in Fiji. The agenda included strategies for women’s rugby, compliance measures, competition realignment, and innovative funding approaches, all aimed at cultivating a sustainable future for the sport.
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