The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is determined to develop a solid business plan to enhance the chances of the Flying Fijians achieving their ultimate goal of winning a Rugby World Cup title. In an exclusive interview with FijiNikua magazine, the chairman of Fiji Rakavi Football Union Limited (FRFUL), John Sanday, emphasized that despite limited resources, Fiji’s national XV team has shown considerable talent, having reached the World Cup quarterfinals three times.
Drawing from his experience as a player who contributed to Fiji’s first quarterfinal qualification, Sanday highlighted that the team’s success came from raw talent, fitness, resilience, and passion for their country. He stated that moving forward, the FRU must transition from relying on minimal resources to establishing a solid business foundation that supports their aspirations for victory at the World Cup.
Key strategies outlined by Sanday involve stabilizing the FRU’s finances, enhancing governance, and devising a revenue-increasing agenda. To this end, sub-committees will be formed to handle specific projects and initiatives approved by the board, with announcements expected in early 2025. The intention is to involve skilled individuals from outside the organization to strengthen these efforts.
In addition, Sanday acknowledged the necessity of forming a rugby players’ association to advocate for player interests, which would, in turn, contribute to improved outcomes for the sport. The proposal includes that a representative from this association would join the FRU board to ensure players’ voices are heard.
Furthermore, the board plans to reassess the staffing and structural organization of FRU to keep pace with global rugby trends and align skills with the ambition of elevating Fiji Rugby to tier-one status.
This proactive approach could potentially reshape the future of Fiji Rugby, paving the way for greater successes on the world stage. With the right strategic planning and community involvement, the Flying Fijians have the potential to achieve their dream of World Cup glory.
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