Fijian Drua is aiding the Fiji Secondary Schools Southern Zone rugby by setting up an online ticketing platform to boost revenue. Southern Zone President Rusiate Wadali confirmed that the platform will be used during the finals at the HFC Bank Stadium on July 20.
Drua’s Ticketing and Membership Manager, Biu Tadranu, explained, “This initiative is based on our experience over the past two seasons, showing how it can elevate competition or events to another level. We are fortunate to bring this system to support the Fiji Secondary School Southern Zone, and we have many targets.”
Tadranu noted that the Fijian Drua franchise used online ticketing from February to June during the Super Rugby Pacific season. “Drua launched all ticket sales last year in December, so the system is not in use for about six to seven months. This significant investment, which no one else in Fiji has, can be repurposed to assist school rugby during its offseason.”
The online ticketing platform was also employed during the NRL pre-season match between Melbourne Storm and Newcastle Knights at Churchill Park in Lautoka on February 24 this year. “Anyone with a smartphone and data can purchase tickets,” Tadranu said. “This platform can expand one’s fan base, reaching thousands of students, family members, and alumni locally and abroad. Fijians living overseas can easily send money to their families to buy tickets via online purchasing apps like M-PAiSA. Overseas supporters can purchase tickets for their family members in Fiji with just a press of a button.”
Tadranu expressed excitement about the partnership, targeting events like the Coke Games, Deans, and Fiji rugby domestic competitions. “While we emphasize the commercial aspect, it’s crucial for any organization or sports team to have the financial backing. This online ticketing approach ensures the progress of sports.”
He added, “This is what we (Fijian Drua) do to help Fiji as a team to progress together.” Tadranu is hopeful to extend the online ticketing platform to other sports as well.