Fijian Drua players have experienced significant personal growth, moving from relying on taxis and minivans to owning their cars, thanks to financial literacy initiatives spearheaded by Gaylene Osborne. As the coordinator of the players’ personal development program in collaboration with the Pacific Rugby Players Association, Osborne has been instrumental in guiding the athletes toward financial independence and long-term planning.
Many players express gratitude for her efforts, as they now consider life beyond rugby. With Osborne’s guidance, several athletes have ventured into business, purchased properties, or made wise investments. Fullback Vuate Karawalevu emphasized the importance of both saving and seeking advice from knowledgeable individuals like Osborne, while hooker Mesulame Dolokoto remarked on the necessity of introducing financial literacy to younger squad members, especially with the presence of a development squad within the Drua.
Osborne noted the positive changes being observed among the players, stating, “Most of our players now have properties and cars. Some have started their own businesses.” One inspiring example includes two players who have opened a coffee caravan outside their headquarters in Nadi—a testament to the success of the personal development program.
The financial health education emphasizes practical skills such as budgeting and saving. As players adopt these habits, many begin contemplating significant purchases, reflecting a promising shift toward financial security. Osborne encourages players to maintain operational accounts and savings for future endeavors, including family support.
As they prepare for their upcoming match against the Brumbies on Friday in Canberra, the Drua’s commitment to financial literacy and personal development signifies not just individual success, but a broader movement towards empowering athletes and building a stronger community. This approach highlights the importance of education in sports, particularly in securing a stable future for players after their careers in rugby.
The growth of financial literacy within the team exemplifies a conscious effort to shape the future of Fijian rugby and the athletes involved, nurturing a generation that values not only their performance on the field but also their stewardship of personal wealth and community upliftment.
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