The recent launch of the World Rugby Strength and Conditioning Level 1 Course for Women marks a significant milestone for women’s rugby in Fiji. Held at the HFC Bank Stadium Corporate Box in Suva, the two-day workshop was inaugurated by the Chief Executive Officer of the Fiji Sports Council, Gilbert Vakalalabure. This initiative, a collaboration between World Rugby and the Fiji Rugby Union, is designed to empower women, equipping them with essential skills in the critical area of strength and conditioning.
During his opening remarks, Vakalalabure emphasized the course’s importance as a foundational step in allowing women to assume leadership roles within the high-performance aspects of rugby. “This workshop isn’t just another training program; it’s part of a bigger movement redefining what it means to be a woman in rugby,” he stated, highlighting the industry’s shift towards inclusivity and empowerment.
The course’s focus is on fundamental principles of athletic performance, injury prevention, and fitness programming tailored to rugby’s specific needs. Vakalalabure underscored Fiji’s achievements in women’s rugby, such as the Olympic bronze medal won by the Fijiana 7s in Tokyo, crediting such accomplishments to effective preparation and intelligent conditioning practices.
Vakalalabure also called upon participants to embrace the opportunity fully, emphasizing their role as pioneers in the sport. “What you learn here will ripple across our clubs, schools, and national teams,” he remarked. The knowledge gained through this course is expected to significantly impact the growth of rugby in Fiji, fostering the next generation of female athletes who will contribute to the sport’s evolution.
This workshop comes at a time when women’s rugby in Fiji is showing remarkable growth, evidenced by the increasing participation and performance levels, especially among schoolgirls and young women. Local teams, such as the Lami Steelers, have demonstrated skill and tenacity in competitions, further illustrating the potential for women in rugby.
As Fiji continues to nurture and support the rising talent in women’s rugby, initiatives such as this course create a hopeful outlook. Women are not just participants in the sport; they are becoming key figures in shaping its future, breaking down barriers, and inspiring others in their communities. The commitment to enhancing women’s roles within sports reflects a broader societal change, promoting empowerment and equality across the great game of rugby.
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