The Dee Cees Nadera Panthers are prioritizing player development to help them secure rugby league contracts with international clubs. This was highlighted by Panthers manager Rodney Nair during 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.” He noted that this season features a new lineup for the team.
He explained that they had to restructure their approach this season because many players typically come from rugby union backgrounds, which has presented various challenges. “It was pretty hard for our coach Vula Dakuitoga to get players together and build them up to this stage,” he remarked, adding that Dakuitoga is recognized as one of the most successful rugby league coaches in Fiji.
Despite these challenges, the Panthers have advanced to the national quarterfinals of the Vodafone Cup, where they will compete against the newcomers, Waitaci Titans.
“Our aim is to perform to the best of our ability and reclaim our lost title. We believe in ourselves and understand the intensity of the situation,” Nair expressed. He also mentioned that the players are confident heading into the match at Sigatoka’s Lawaqa Park.
“The coach has faith in the players as their commitment to diet and training has been impressive,” Nair added. He is encouraging Nadera rugby league fans to come out and support the Panthers as they seek to make more history in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup.
Nair also noted that four players have departed the club to join the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Navy.