The Fiji Primary Schools Rugby Union (FPSRU) has made a significant step forward by introducing girl’s rugby at the national Kaji competition, marking a welcome return after a five-year absence. The competition kicked off yesterday and is set to span three days at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, involving over 3,000 players in the Under 13 and 14 categories. The younger grades, from Under 9 to Under 12, competed within their respective districts.
President Sakiusa Turagabeci emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that the FPSRU is the largest union in Fiji in terms of player registration, boasting 22,000 boys and 11,000 girls from Under 9 to Under 14. He expressed gratitude for establishing a supportive developmental framework for rugby, which is crucial for nurturing young talent.
Turagabeci highlighted that the opportunity for growth extends not only to players but also to their coaches, as ongoing efforts are directed toward ensuring all coaches achieve Level 1 accreditation from World Rugby. Out of 39 participating districts, 17 were able to meet the FPSRU’s requirements, while others are actively working toward compliance.
Among the participating districts are Taveuni, Waidina, Suva (both Blues and Whites), Rewa, Ra, and several others. Turagabeci noted that some districts faced challenges, including geographical isolation and inadequate communication networks, which hindered timely submissions regarding participation requirements. However, he remains optimistic about greater involvement in next year’s competition.
In a testament to the grassroots nature of this initiative, Turagabeci compared the FPSRU’s contribution to Fiji’s rugby legacy to the broader, more glamorous narratives often associated with elite-level competitions. He expressed pride in the fact that primary school teachers across the nation feel a connection to the success of national teams, recognizing that many players’ journeys in rugby begin at this foundational level.
FPSRU extends its appreciation to Vodafone for supporting the competition by covering transportation costs, providing shuttle services, and supplying jerseys, allowing teams to focus solely on their performance without the burden of additional expenses. Turagabeci also acknowledged Fiji 7s men’s head coach Osea Kolinisau for being a special guest at the event, an appearance that deeply moved many young players.
Overall, the introduction of girl’s rugby and the robust participation from various districts signal a promising future for the sport in Fiji, nurturing both male and female athletes while enhancing the national rugby community.
In summary, the FPSRU is fostering a vibrant rugby culture in Fiji, embracing inclusivity and offering hope for a strong future in the sport.
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