The Fiji Bulikula women’s rugby league team received financial support from the Ministry for Women, Children and Social Protection to assist in their preparations for the 2024 NRL Pacific Championships during a ceremony at Naibati House in Suva.
The atmosphere in the conference room was filled with optimism as Minister Lynda Tabuya and team officials discussed their shared commitment to advancing women’s rugby league in Fiji.
Tabuya expressed her hope that this financial assistance would mark the beginning of a lasting partnership between the ministry and the team. She emphasized the goal of identifying more young women from local communities and those currently in rugby union who could have the chance to transition to rugby league.
Joe Rabele, the head coach of the team, conveyed his gratitude for the timely support. He noted that the men’s team, the Fiji Bati, gearing up to face the Papua New Guinea Kumuls this Saturday, serves as an inspiration for the women’s team.
“The men’s team (Bati) have already qualified for the Rugby League World Cup, which will motivate the girls to work hard and aim for qualification in the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup,” Rabele stated.
He also announced that the women’s team would commence training camp this Saturday, following the arrival of all overseas-based players. The Bulikula team is set to compete against the Cook Islands Moana team on Saturday, October 26, at HFC Bank Stadium.