The Dee Cees Nadera Panthers are focused on player development, aiming to secure rugby league contracts for their athletes with clubs overseas. This was highlighted by Panthers manager Rodney Nair in an interview with SUNsports.
Nair stated, “We don’t hold on to our players as soon as they find employment or play for a rugby league club overseas,” emphasizing that the team is comprised of a new lineup this season. He noted that they have re-strategized due to most players typically competing in rugby union, leading to various challenges.
“It was pretty hard for our coach Vula Dakuitoga to get players together and build them up to this stage,” he added, recognizing Dakuitoga as one of the most successful rugby league coaches in Fiji.
Despite facing obstacles, the Panthers have secured a place in the Vodafone Cup national quarterfinals, where they will compete against newcomers Waitaci Titans. Nair expressed the team’s determination, saying, “Our aim is to play to the best of our ability and try to reclaim our lost title. We believe in ourselves as we know how intense the situation is.”
The players are reportedly confident heading into the match at Sigatoka’s Lawaqa Park. Nair mentioned, “The coach has confidence in the players because their attitude towards diet and training has been good.” He also encouraged Nadera rugby league fans to come out and support the Panthers as they aim to make history in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup.
Nair noted that four players have left the club to join the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Navy.