Rugby league is experiencing remarkable growth in Fiji, with participation now exceeding 100 schools, including 34 girls’ teams. This expansion is part of a dedicated effort to create opportunities for young athletes in Fiji, especially for those who may not have access to rugby union careers.
Waisea Kativerata, the head coach of Fiji Bati, is a key proponent of this movement, emphasizing the distinctive advantages that rugby league provides. He explained the professional approach taken in their programs, stating, “Rugby league is different from rugby union— we’re professional in how we run our programs. We expect discipline, and we’re teaching young players how to be more organised.”
Kativerata noted the quicker path to professional success that rugby league offers, citing the example of Semi Valemei, who transitioned from playing in Seqaqa to joining Canberra in the NRL within two years. This rapid ascent contrasts sharply with the longer, more complex progression often found in rugby union.
The program not only focuses on developing skills but also aims to cultivate a professional mindset among young athletes. Key values such as discipline, punctuality, and hard work are instilled through the rugby league framework. Their structured methodology seeks to expedite the success of young players, whether in local competitions or on international stages.
For many athletes, rugby league serves as a crucial opportunity, providing scholarships, financial assistance, and pathways to professional careers in Australia or New Zealand. According to Kativerata, “Once you are at the top, you stay, and for the next 4 to 5 years you get permanent residency, and it’s up to you if you want to go back or retire there and live a good life in Australia.”