Rural schools in Fiji’s Western Division are experiencing significant improvements in sports and education through the efforts of the Fiji Life Foundation Support Grassroot Rugby initiative. This initiative originated from a collaboration between the Gordon Rugby Club in Australia and Encore Company Limited in the US, and has since evolved into a robust support network since its rebranding in 2023. Dr. Mike Gosling, founder of the Fiji Life Foundation, along with Ryan Irvine of Mantaray Island Resort and Kilkara West Pymble (KWP) from Sydney, have bolstered these efforts to focus on the development of young rugby talent in rural areas.
Local representative Kaiyava Salusalu highlights that the core mission is to nurture young athletes, enabling them not only to hone their skills but also to potentially secure professional contracts. The initiative has already made considerable contributions to various rugby clubs and educational institutions, including names like Yasawa Mantra and Somosomo Rugby Club, alongside schools such as Naviti District School, Gaunavou Primary School, Ratu Meli Primary School, Burua Memorial School, Nahehevia Secondary School, and Nakauvadra High School.
Salusalu announced that rugby uniforms for Yasawa High School have been prepared, with the group set to present additional donations of rugby and netball uniforms to Ratu Nemani Memorial School. This latest donation will cater to students in grades U11 to U14 for rugby and U10 to U14 for netball, amplifying the foundation’s commitment to empowering youth through sports.
This initiative is paralleled by similar efforts observed across the region, such as the Fiji Bitter Nacula, Yasawa 7s rugby tournament, which recently committed $10,000 to local schools for improving educational facilities. Such programs underscore the essential role of sports in fostering community engagement and providing pathways for youth to develop their skills.
Overall, these grassroots efforts not only aim to develop athletic talent but also focus on steering young individuals toward healthier lifestyles, reducing the temptation of drug-related activities or crime. With community involvement and support, the outlook for these sporting initiatives remains promising, exemplifying the transformative power of sports and education in the lives of young Fijians.
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