Fiji Rugby has proudly announced the launch of an innovative women’s rugby franchise competition, the Na Soko tournament, which is set to commence this Friday at Lawaqa Park. This exciting initiative is aimed at filling the gap between local provincial play and the upper echelons of professional rugby, specifically supporting the aspirations of the Vodafone Fijiana XV.
The Na Soko tournament is designed with the future of women’s rugby in mind, operating at a semi-professional level and featuring players from 36 unions, divided into four regional teams: Camakau, Bilibili, Kaunitoni, and Takia. Alana Thomas, Fiji Rugby Women’s High Performance Manager, emphasized the opportunity Na Soko provides for players not currently on the Fijian Drua roster to vie for selection in the Rugby World Cup and to elevate their status within the national setup.
“This tournament will allow coaches to build depth in the Vodafone Fijiana XV squad, providing a blank slate for those who show strong performance during Na Soko to be considered for the Oceania squad,” said Thomas. Furthermore, the tournament will serve as a platform for coaches involved in a newly-established High Performance coaching program, allowing them valuable assessment opportunities as they develop their skills.
Tournament Director Jikoibau Matawalu highlighted Na Soko as a critical link connecting grassroots rugby to the professional level, stating, “We are creating a pathway where local talent can thrive and dream of donning the Fijiana jersey.”
The four franchises honor Fiji’s rich maritime legacy, symbolizing unity and resilience. Players from various regions will come together, with the Takia franchise pulling together teams from Western Fiji, while the others will be drawn from across the nation, reflecting the diversity and talent in women’s rugby.
Fiji Rugby is encouraging enthusiastic support from local fans, families, and communities as they celebrate the launch of Na Soko. This tournament showcases a positive step forward for women’s rugby, indicating a strong commitment to promoting inclusivity and competitive opportunities within the sport.
Previously, initiatives like the Lautoka Rugby Union’s introduction of women’s competitions emphasized the growing commitment to women’s rugby in Fiji. Much like Na Soko, these efforts bring hope for rural athletes, inspiring a new generation of female players to engage passionately with the sport and potentially shape Fiji’s rugby future.
Overall, Na Soko not only enhances competition but also contributes to a broader movement towards equity in sports, promising an uplifting future for women’s rugby in Fiji.
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