The Minister of Youth and Sport, Jese Saukuru, assured that the Fiji women’s sevens team will receive ample support as they prepare to compete in the upcoming Dubai Sevens tournament. His comments followed a presentation of the team’s i-tatau at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva.
Saukuru emphasized the impressive growth of women’s rugby worldwide, describing it as a “remarkable success story.” He highlighted the sport’s potential for future expansion, noting that initiatives such as the new Women in Rugby brand and the “Try and Stop Us” campaign have significantly boosted female participation, which now stands at an unprecedented 2.7 million players globally. Since 2017, there has been a 28 percent increase in registered female players.
However, the minister also acknowledged the historical challenges faced by women rugby players in Fiji. He spoke about the discrimination, discouragement, and sometimes extreme consequences that these athletes have endured for pursuing their passion. Many have sacrificed personal time, financial resources, and have faced societal backlash in the early stages of women’s rugby development in the country.
Despite these adversities, Saukuru praised the women’s unwavering dedication to the sport. He announced the government’s commitment to advancing rugby in Fiji, with over $4.2 million allocated in the current budget aimed at nurturing talent and promoting all levels of rugby.
As the Fijiana women’s sevens team prepares for their departure to Dubai on Sunday, Saukuru reminded them that the people of Fiji are behind them, entrusting them with the hopes and dreams of the nation. He encouraged the team to remain resilient, stating that while challenges await, they carry the unwavering support and blessings of the government and their fellow citizens.
In summary, the Fiji women’s sevens team heads to Dubai with robust governmental backing and increasing international support for women’s rugby, symbolizing not only the growth of the sport but also the progress in gender equality in athletics. This positive trajectory in women’s rugby serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes nationwide and promotes a culture of empowerment and resilience.
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