The business sector in Labasa is showing strong support for next year’s Battle of the Giants tournament, which is sanctioned by the Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) and will be held at Subrail Park. This confirmation came from Fiji FA chief executive, Mohammed Yusuf.
Paul Jaduram, president of the Macuata Tourism Association, expressed his approval for Labasa being chosen to host the tournament. He highlighted that this event is expected to generate significant economic activity for the area. Labasa has considerable potential for sports tourism, but it relies on the cooperation and support of the local business community to maximize this opportunity. Jaduram emphasized that the town has sufficient hotel accommodations for visitors arriving from Viti Levu.
Ravneel Pratap, the coach of the Labasa football men’s team, sees this as a prime opportunity for the team to reclaim the B.O.G title, which they lost this year, having previously won it in 2023. He stressed the importance of the council upgrading the playing ground to a high standard to showcase quality football. Labasa also hosted the Digicel Fiji FACT tournament earlier this year, witnessing a tremendous turnout.
Pratap welcomed the tournament news, acknowledging the pressure that comes with hosting but also expressing excitement about competing in front of a home crowd. In anticipation of the Fiji FACT, the Labasa Town Council invested over $40,000 in new floodlights to enhance the playing facilities.
Overall, the enthusiasm and commitment from both the business and sports communities in Labasa underscore a collective effort toward making the upcoming tournament a success. The collaboration not only promises to elevate the sporting experience but also boosts local economic activity, paving the way for future events in the region.
This shows a promising future for Labasa’s sports tourism and highlights how community support can turn events into opportunities for local growth.
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