Netball Fiji at a Crossroads: Will Change Come?

The president of the Nadi Netball Association, Sikeli Vula, has expressed strong concerns regarding the future of netball players in Nadi as the association heads toward a Special General Meeting (SGM) of Netball Fiji this coming Saturday. Vula’s impassioned plea highlights the uncertain future for players seeking national representation, especially in light of whether Fiji will qualify for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

Vula, who has no personal grievances against the existing executive but emphasizes the players’ need for clarity and support, stated, “I cannot be lying or giving false hope to tell them ‘waqe vakaikai’ (play your best).” He voiced the concerns of 15 presidents from various netball associations across Fiji who collectively called for the SGM due to growing dissatisfaction with the current leadership of Netball Fiji. This coalition is pushing for a vote of no confidence against the current executive committee, advocating for interim leadership to steer the sport in a more positive direction.

The gathering of support for the SGM reflects a wider sentiment within the Fiji netball community, which has seen various leaders advocating for enhanced governance and accountability. Similar sentiments were voiced by Alumeci Vosararawa-Sachs, president of the Suva Netball Association, who noted the lack of adequate support from Netball Fiji, especially in developmental initiatives for associations like Nadi and Lautoka.

Questions directed to RubyAnn Sorovaki, president of Netball Fiji, regarding the situation went unanswered before this report.

The sentiment among the netball community indicates a hope for positive change and revitalization of the sport through increased collaboration and improvements to grassroots development efforts. As Vula articulated, the push for action on behalf of Nadi’s young players may pave the way for a brighter future for netball in Fiji if the leadership responds effectively to the ongoing concerns.

This pivotal moment can potentially lead to meaningful changes in governance that benefit not only the players but the broader netball community, fostering a stronger culture in the sport throughout Fiji.