The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl competition aims to foster more than just sportsmanship. Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, emphasized this message during the launch at the Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva, yesterday.
The theme for this year’s Ratu Sukuna Bowl is “Stronger Together: Building a Drug-Free Nation through Family, Unity, and Reconciliation.” Kalouniwai addressed the challenge presented by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, highlighting the responsibilities of both forces and their commitment to creating a better Fiji.
Kalouniwai remarked, “It is more than about winning or losing. It’s about the spirit we share in the forces, who we are, what we represent, and what we can achieve for the future of our country.” He noted that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces has been on a path of reconciliation over recent months to pave the way for a new future.
Addressing the ongoing drug crisis affecting communities, Kalouniwai expressed hope that both forces could embody the true spirit of the Sukuna Bowl and uphold moral integrity in their duties. Chew reaffirmed his commitment, stating that Nasova is the rightful home of the Ratu Sukuna Bowl and expressed the Fiji Police Force’s readiness to defend the trophy.
The police retained the Ratu Sukuna Bowl title last year, playing to a draw of 11-11 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Chew reiterated the importance of advocating against drugs, stressing that the new Ratu Sukuna trophy, unveiled in 2022, should remain at its home in Nasova.
Salman Khan, chief commercial officer of Vodafone Fiji, highlighted the nation’s passion for rugby, stating that the competition represents not only a quest for victory but also the values of camaraderie, discipline, and spirited rivalry. He encouraged players to compete with integrity and pride, remembering the legacy of past champions and the aspirations of future generations.
The Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is tentatively scheduled for November 8 at HFC Bank Stadium, coinciding with other sporting events that week.