Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata emphasized the importance of teaching rugby league fundamentals to foster a talented player pool in the Northern Division. In a recent two-day workshop held in Labasa, he addressed the need to challenge the prevailing notion among the youth that only rugby sevens and fifteens are prestigious. According to Kativerata, rugby league is an evolving sport that can provide pathways for young talents to carve out professional careers.
Notable players from the Northern region, such as Semi Valemi and Semi Radradra, who have succeeded in the Australian National Rugby League (NRL), serve as inspiring examples. He pointed out that while rugby league is a straightforward sport, mastering its basic skills is crucial for thriving in it. Kativerata noted that the prospects for Northern players to join professional clubs internationally look bright, advocating for grassroots development by introducing players as young as 14 to the sport.
He announced a six-year initiative by the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) aimed at expanding the sport beyond Viti Levu to reach Vanua Levu and surrounding maritime islands. Female participant Motu Lalagavesi, a Macuata women’s rugby coach, expressed her enthusiasm for rugby league and encouraged women to explore the sport, especially enjoying its unique six-tackle rule.
Northern State Rugby League interim president Alan Tuinasoni highlighted that the 22 registered clubs in the division are being encouraged to develop women’s teams alongside men’s sides. Currently, the Labasa and Dreketi zones are the most active, with Labasa hosting eight clubs, while Dreketi-Seaqaqa also accommodates eight, and Bua has six.
This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing inclusivity in the sport and underscores the potential for rugby league to grow significantly in the region.
In summary, the ongoing efforts to educate and expand rugby league, particularly among youth and women, is not only promising for the sport’s future in Fiji but also reinforces a sense of community and opportunity for aspiring athletes. The journey of these players, as they embrace rugby league, presents an exciting prospect for the overall development of sports in the Northern Division.
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