Jeremy Duxbury, the strategy planner for BA Rugby Union, is advocating for a fundamental change in how the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) allocates its resources, particularly as it approaches the upcoming Annual General Meeting. Duxbury points out a troubling imbalance in the FRU’s budget, which predominantly supports high-performance teams and national representation, while grassroots development remains significantly underfunded.
He expresses concern over the critical lack of rugby facilities in Fiji, which impacts player development and performance. According to Duxbury, the disparity in resources is evident—players in the Skipper Cup struggle with fitness and endurance compared to those in the Drua, primarily due to inadequate access to essential facilities like training grounds and equipment.
Duxbury calls for an urgent focus on building infrastructure at the grassroots level, ensuring all players have access to basic training necessities. He argues that without proper resources, even qualified coaches face challenges in maximizing their players’ potential.
Moreover, he urges the FRU to strengthen its position with World Rugby, advocating for an increased budget allocation directed toward grassroots development instead of solely focusing on national teams. Duxbury envisions a comprehensive long-term plan that would elevate the sport across all levels in Fiji, ensuring every rugby player has adequate training facilities.
The call for a more balanced approach in resource allocation highlights an important perspective in sports development. By investing equally in high-performance programs and grassroots initiatives, Fiji Rugby can nurture a more profound and sustainable talent pool, ultimately enhancing the nation’s competitiveness on the international stage.
This shift not only fosters local talent but also strengthens the future of rugby in Fiji, promising a more inclusive and successful environment for players at all levels.
Leave a comment