The Minister of Youth and Sport, Jese Saukuru, has assured that the Fiji women’s sevens team will receive full support during the upcoming Dubai Sevens next weekend. His remarks came after the national women’s sevens team presented their i-tatau at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva.
Saukuru highlighted the impressive progress of women’s rugby, noting its rapid global growth and the potential for further expansion over the next decade. He emphasized the introduction of the Women in Rugby brand and the motivational campaign “Try and Stop Us,” which has contributed to a significant rise in female rugby participation worldwide, reaching 2.7 million players.
Since 2017, the number of registered female players has surged by 28 percent. However, Saukuru acknowledged the historical challenges faced by women rugby players in Fiji, including societal discouragement and personal consequences for pursuing the sport. Many have had to overcome significant obstacles, including discrimination and ostracism.
Despite these struggles, he praised the unwavering passion and dedication of these athletes and noted that the government has committed over $4.2 million to support rugby development in Fiji. This investment signifies the government’s commitment to nurturing rugby talent at all levels.
As the Fijiana women’s sevens team prepares for Dubai, they carry the hopes and dreams of the nation with them. They are placed in Pool A alongside formidable teams, including Ireland, China, and Australia.
This event not only showcases the talent of female athletes but also represents a crucial step in promoting women’s sports in Fiji. The optimism in Saukuru’s message reflects a collective hope for success and recognition for women in rugby.
In summary, the Fiji women’s sevens team is set to receive strong governmental support as they embark on their competition in Dubai, amid a backdrop of significant growth and investment in women’s rugby in the nation.
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