Former Fiji 7s head coach Ben Gollings has urged for an immediate restructuring of the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), stressing the importance of having leaders with a thorough understanding of sports in charge of its operations and administration.
His remarks come amid ongoing conflicts between the FRU and its players, which have negatively affected the organization’s performance and transparency. Gollings pointed out that the FRU requires leaders who grasp the complexities of performance, both on the field and in the administrative arena.
“FRU needs individuals who comprehend sports not just from a business angle but also from the perspective of athletes and performance,” Gollings stated.
He noted that Fiji is a country with a deep passion for rugby, drawing thousands of fans at all levels, but this fervor needs to be reflected in the FRU’s administrative functions.
“There are many dedicated rugby fans in Fiji, but that same level of passion and insight needs to be present at the operational level,” Gollings emphasized.
A significant concern he raised was the necessity for transparency within the union, suggesting that full openness is essential for the FRU’s integrity and for rebuilding trust between players and management.
Furthermore, Gollings advocated for the appointment of a dedicated player representative in the decision-making processes at Rugby House. “The players need representation. A player representative should be included to communicate the athletes’ concerns directly to the union leadership,” he said, underlining that player welfare should be a priority in the FRU’s strategies.
Gollings’ comments resonate with rising worries in the rugby community regarding the FRU’s trajectory, especially in light of its recent difficulties in maintaining player relations.
Nemani Tuifagalele, secretary of the Suva Rugby Union, echoed Gollings’ call for players to establish their own organization. “A players’ union can achieve many things,” he remarked.
The push for a leadership overhaul and increased transparency reflects a widespread belief that the FRU must reform to ensure continued success for Fiji on the global rugby stage. In the last week, senior players Waisea Nayacalevu, Levani Botia, and Semi Radradra have drawn attention to these concerns, highlighting ongoing challenges with player relations within the FRU.
Gollings’ interview has gained significant attention, amassing over 42,000 views and around 600 shares within 24 hours.