Netball Fiji is navigating a challenging period as its president, RubyAnn Sorovaki, and her committee face the fallout from a significant boycott by 15 member associations during a recent Special General Meeting (SGM). The associations have threatened to disaffiliate, citing their dissatisfaction with the organization’s leadership and governance structures.
President Sorovaki expressed her surprise at the discontent, noting that a lot of work would need to be done to address the concerns of the associations. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing netball as a sport and seeking constructive feedback to ensure its stability moving forward. “There’s just a lot that we have to go back now and deal with,” she stated, recognizing that the situation’s outcome could vary, yet underscoring the need for a focused approach amid the turmoil.
The SGM witnessed the presentation of 12 motions, but no resolutions were reached. Notably, dissenting voices like Alumeci Sachs, president of the Suva Netball Association, highlighted the perceived issues surrounding voting rights within the organization, opposing the executives’ participation in voting. Sorovaki defended the current constitutional framework, reiterating that any changes would require adherence to established procedures.
This tumultuous development follows ongoing discussions about governance lapses in Netball Fiji, previously addressed in various reports detailing concerns about financial transparency and the performance of the national team, the Fiji Pearls, currently ranked 16th globally. The dissatisfaction culminated in calls for improved governance, with associations emphasizing the need for a review of constitutional practices to foster inclusivity and accountability.
Despite the existing challenges, there is a sense of optimism among stakeholders regarding potential reforms. The upcoming discussions present an opportunity for Netball Fiji to engage in constructive dialogue with its associations. If successful, these negotiations could enhance governance and foster a supportive environment for grassroots initiatives, revitalizing netball in Fiji.
Leaders within the netball community hope that by working collaboratively, they can pave the way for significant changes that will not only benefit the sport’s governance but also bolster its development at all levels—leading to a brighter future for netball in Fiji. With this moment serving as a potential turning point, there is a hopeful outlook for rejuvenation and growth in the sport.
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