The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is urged to create a solid business plan to support the Flying Fijians in their quest for a Rugby World Cup title. This insight came from John Sanday, chairman of the Fiji Rakavi Football Union Limited (FRFUL), during an exclusive interview with FijiNikua magazine. The FRFUL serves as the operational body for the Fiji Rugby Union. Sanday emphasized the abundance of talent in Fiji, noting that the national XV team has reached the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals three times, despite limited resources.
Drawing from his experiences as a member of the Flying Fijians, who were part of Fiji’s inaugural World Cup quarterfinal, Sanday highlighted that success was driven by talent, fitness, and a deep love for the country. He articulated a focused objective: “Our ultimate goal is to win the Rugby World Cup.” He stressed the need to transition from improvised resources to a more structured business foundation vital for achieving this ambition.
Key priorities identified by Sanday include stabilizing FRU’s finances and governance while creating a work agenda aimed at enhancing revenue streams. Plans for establishing board sub-committees to effectively manage specific projects are set to be announced in early 2025. Sanday also expressed intentions to involve skilled individuals from outside the organization to broaden the revenue base and pursue capital projects.
Recognizing the importance of player representation, Sanday supported the creation of a Fiji Rugby Players Association. This association will advocate for player interests within the FRU, aiming to improve overall outcomes. A nominee from this association is expected to hold a seat on the board, reinforcing the commitment to player involvement in decision-making processes.
In addition, Sanday mentioned that a review of FRU’s staff structure is necessary to align capabilities with the evolving requirements of international rugby, aspiring to elevate Fiji Rugby to a tier one status.
The hope surrounding this initiative lies in the potential for a more organized and resource-rich approach to nurturing Fiji’s rugby talent, which may lead to greater success on the global stage. The formation of a strategic plan could set the precedent for future achievements and further establish Fiji’s presence in the rugby world.
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