The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is on the path to establishing a robust business plan aimed at propelling the Flying Fijians toward their ultimate goal of winning a Rugby World Cup title. In a recent interview with FijiNikua magazine, FRU Chairman John Sanday emphasized the abundance of talent within the national XV’s side, which has reached the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals on three occasions despite limited resources.
Sanday, a member of the Flying Fijians team that achieved the historic first quarterfinal in the tournament’s history, noted that past success was driven by talent, fitness, determination, and passion for the nation. However, he is now advocating for a shift from reliance on minimal resources to the establishment of a solid business foundation capable of supporting the team’s aspirations.
“Our ultimate goal is to win the Rugby World Cup,” he said. To achieve this, Sanday outlined the need to stabilize the finances of the FRU, implement stricter governance, and develop a work agenda designed to expand revenue streams for the organization. This will involve adopting a “back to basics” approach from a corporate perspective.
To facilitate effective governance and project management, Sanday revealed plans to set up board subcommittees with clearly defined charters, aiming for announcements regarding these changes by early 2025. He also highlighted the importance of integrating external experts into these committees to bring fresh perspectives and expertise.
In addition, Sanday acknowledged the necessity of establishing a Fiji Rugby Players Association to represent athletes’ interests within the FRU, aiming to enhance player outcomes. This association is expected to include a board member nominated by its members, fostering a more inclusive decision-making process.
Furthermore, the board plans to review FRU staffing and structural alignment to ensure that the organization’s capabilities meet the evolving demands of global rugby, ultimately helping Fiji Rugby reach tier one status.
This initiative demonstrates a hopeful approach to revitalizing Fiji Rugby, and if successfully implemented, it has the potential to elevate the national team to new heights on the international stage. The commitment to improving governance, financial stability, and player representation marks a positive step toward a brighter future for Fiji Rugby.
Overall, this strategic shift suggests a promising future for the Flying Fijians as they aim not just to participate in, but to compete successfully at the highest levels of the sport.
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