The business community in Labasa has expressed strong support for hosting the 2024 Rooster Chicken/Scoop Ice Cream Fiji Football Association’s (Fiji FA) Battle of the Giants tournament at Subrail Park. This announcement comes after Fiji FA chief executive Mohammed Yusuf confirmed the event will take place in Labasa.
Paul Jaduram, president of the Macuata Tourism Association, praised the decision and commended Fiji FA for entrusting the tournament to the Labasa Town Council. He highlighted that the event is expected to boost economic activity in the area and emphasized Labasa’s significant potential for sports tourism, which relies on strong collaboration among local businesses.
Jaduram noted that Labasa has ample hotel accommodations to host visitors from Viti Levu, enhancing the town’s capacity to attract tourists for the tournament. Additionally, Labasa football men’s coach Ravneel Pratap sees this as a great chance to reclaim the title they lost this year, having previously won the B.O.G title in 2023.
Pratap called for improvements to the playing grounds to ensure a high standard of football during the tournament. He expressed confidence that the football community in the North will warmly welcome the event, despite the pressure of competing on home turf. Excitement and anticipation are palpable as the community prepares to host, following the successful turnout at the Digicel Fiji FACT tournament earlier this year.
In preparation for hosting future events, the Labasa Town Council has already installed new floodlights at a cost of over $40,000, showcasing their commitment to enhancing the facilities for players and fans alike.
This positive development not only promotes local pride but also reinforces Labasa’s reputation as a budding center for sports tourism, paving the way for future events and economic growth within the community.
Summary: The Labasa business community supports hosting the 2024 Battle of the Giants tournament, which is expected to boost local tourism and economy. Local leaders emphasize the need for collaboration and facility improvements. The Labasa Town Council is already enhancing facilities, reflecting commitment to the event’s success.
Leave a comment