The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl competition is set to be about more than just sports participation. This sentiment was expressed by Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, during the event’s official 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 accepted the challenge from Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, emphasizing the responsibility of both forces to contribute to a better Fiji.
“It’s more than just 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 this country,” Kalouniwai stated.
He noted that, in recent months, the RFMF has been on a reconciliation journey to pave a new path forward. Meanwhile, the Fiji Police Force is grappling with the drug crisis affecting communities, and Kalouniwai hopes the participating forces will maintain high moral standards during their responsibilities leading up to the event.
Chew emphasized that the Ratu Sukuna Bowl rightfully belongs at Nasova and expressed the police force’s eagerness to defend the trophy. He remarked, “As career police officers, we tend to be suspicious of everyone and wonder about any potential strategy at play here.”
Last year, the police managed to retain the Ratu Sukuna Bowl after a draw of 11-11 at Prince Charles Park, Nadi. Chew further stated, “With the rising social issues in our communities, we advocate for saying no to drugs. The new Ratu Sukuna tanoa has only one home, Nasova, and this year, it shall return home.”
Salman Khan, Chief Commercial Officer of Vodafone Fiji, highlighted the importance of the event, noting that Fiji is a nation passionate about rugby and that the disciplined forces will compete for not just victory but for a trophy representing camaraderie and spirited rivalry. He encouraged players to compete with integrity, passion, and pride, bearing in mind the legacy of past champions and the aspirations of future generations.
The tentative date for the Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is set for November 8 at the HFC Bank Stadium, with additional sports events commencing in the same week.