As rugby league gains popularity in Fiji, Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Waisake Kativerata is advocating for the sport’s potential to address social challenges and promote a culture of faith within the team. Kativerata emphasized the importance of promoting rugby league across the nation as a means to tackle issues such as drug abuse and HIV, and to serve as positive role models for the youth.
“I’m working to expand the reach of rugby league in Fiji. With the social problems we face, we aim to be role models for the younger generation,” he explained. The coach plans to take the Bati players to grassroots communities, highlighting their role as influential figures for children.
“I need role models; we all need role models in this endeavor, and that’s what I’ve been conveying to the boys,” Kativerata stated.
Furthermore, he underscored that faith, family, and football should be the foundation of a Bati player. He believes that while church and sport may seem separate, they can coexist and support one another. “Faith comes first, family second, and then footy. It’s easy to overlook the importance of family, but we must nurture it and instill faith within them,” he added.
Kativerata also suggested that rather than forcing children to choose between attending church or participating in sports, it’s better to integrate the two. “If we set up a church and a sports ground, we will see more young boys at the ground than in church, so we should bring the church to them,” he remarked.
In the meantime, the Fiji Bati are gearing up for the upcoming Pacific Championship in October.