The Minister of Youth and Sport, Jese Saukuru, expressed strong support for the Fiji women’s sevens team as they prepare for the upcoming Dubai Sevens next weekend. His endorsement came during a presentation ceremony where the national team showcased their i-tatau at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva.
Saukuru highlighted the significant progress women’s rugby has made worldwide, noting that it represents a crucial opportunity for growth in the next decade. He pointed to initiatives like the new Women in Rugby brand and the motivating ‘Try and Stop Us’ campaign, which have contributed to female participation reaching an impressive 2.7 million players globally. Since 2017, Fiji has seen a 28 percent increase in registered female players.
However, Saukuru also acknowledged the historical challenges faced by women rugby players in Fiji, including societal discouragement and harsh treatment. He emphasized that many players have made significant sacrifices for the sport’s development in the country.
In a show of commitment, the government has allocated over $4.2 million in the current budget to support the growth of rugby in Fiji, showcasing their dedication to nurturing talent and promoting the sport at all levels. Saukuru reassured the players that the people of Fiji are firmly behind them, reminding them that they carry the nation’s hopes and dreams.
As the Fijiana women’s sevens team prepares to depart for Dubai, they will compete in Pool A against formidable opponents Ireland, China, and Australia.
In summary, the article emphasizes both the strides made in women’s rugby and the support from the Fijian government, offering an encouraging outlook for the team as they head into the Dubai Sevens.
This upcoming event in Dubai presents an excellent opportunity for the Fijiana team to showcase their skills on an international platform, reinforcing the positive trajectory of women’s rugby in Fiji and beyond.
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