The Minister of Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, has assured that the Fiji women’s sevens team will receive robust support as they prepare for the upcoming Dubai Sevens. His remarks followed the team’s presentation of their i-tatau ceremony yesterday at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva.
Saukuru praised women’s rugby as a remarkable success story, emphasizing its rapid growth globally and highlighting the significant potential for expansion in the next decade. He pointed out that initiatives such as the new Women in Rugby brand and the empowering campaign titled “Try and Stop Us” have contributed to an impressive surge in female participation in the sport, which has reached an all-time high of 2.7 million players worldwide. Since 2017, there has been a 28 percent increase in registered female rugby players.
However, Saukuru acknowledged the historical challenges faced by women rugby players in Fiji, noting that many had experienced discouragement, disapproval, and even physical repercussions for their passion for rugby. He expressed admiration for the sacrifices made by these athletes, who have dedicated their time, effort, and resources to the sport’s development despite the obstacles.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting rugby in Fiji, announcing an allocation of over $4.2 million in the current budget aimed at nurturing talent and promoting rugby at all levels. He encouraged the team to remember that the people of Fiji stand solidly behind them as they face the challenges ahead, stating, “You carry our hopes and dreams on your shoulders. The road may be challenging, but today, you have our blessings and our unwavering support.”
The Fijiana women’s sevens team is set to depart for Dubai on Sunday, where they will compete in Pool A against Ireland, China, and Australia.
This encouraging news showcases the growing recognition and support for women’s sports and highlights the positive change in attitudes towards female athletes in Fiji. The government’s funding demonstrates a commitment to creating an even more inclusive environment for future generations of female rugby players, which is a hopeful sign for the evolution of women’s sports in the country.
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