Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata has announced plans for an increase in international matches for junior rugby league players over the coming years. The initiative aims to elevate the standards of the sport in Fiji by providing young athletes with more opportunities to compete against overseas teams.
The Under-18 Fiji Schoolboys team is set to host Tonga later this month, which is part of a series of anticipated matchups aimed at nurturing local talent. Kativerata stated, “What we try to build now is that every year we play more international games for our local juniors. We’re looking at under-18 games against Tonga, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, and potentially Australian schoolboys in the near future.” He believes that these engagements serve as vital stepping stones for players, enhancing their skills and paving the way for future contracts abroad.
In line with previous announcements regarding a Fiji Rugby League academy, this initiative reflects a comprehensive strategy designed to bolster grassroots development and broaden the talent pipeline. Through international exposure, Kativerata hopes to not only enhance the competitiveness of the players but also enable them to secure professional opportunities in leagues outside Fiji.
Preparations for the friendly match against Tonga are well underway, and excitement is building around the prospect of more matches that will help shape the futures of these young athletes. This strategy underscores a positive shift in Fiji’s rugby league landscape, presenting hopeful prospects for the next generation of players and a commitment to the sport’s development in the region. The continuous integration of international matches and academies exemplifies a dedication to fostering talent and enhancing the overall standard of rugby league across the nation.
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