Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata emphasized the importance of educating aspiring players in rugby league during a recent two-day training workshop held in Labasa. He believes that instilling a solid foundation of knowledge in the sport can greatly enhance the talent pool in the Northern Division.
Kativerata expressed concern that many youths perceive rugby sevens and fifteens as the only respected codes, suggesting this mindset needs to be changed. He highlighted that rugby league is an increasingly popular sport that opens opportunities for young talents to advance and build careers. He pointed out the success of players like Semi Valemi and Semi Radradra, who hail from the North and have made their mark in the Australian National Rugby League (NRL).
He stated, “Rugby league is a simple sport, but mastering the basics will help players thrive.” Kativerata sees great potential for northern players to join professional clubs internationally. To achieve this, he advocates for grassroots development, proposing to introduce children as young as 14 to the sport. This initiative is part of a six-year project by the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL), which aims to develop rugby league in Vanua Levu and surrounding islands, expanding beyond Viti Levu.
Among the participants was Motu Lalagavesi, the Macuata women’s rugby coach, who expressed enthusiasm about the sport. She encouraged more women to try rugby league, citing the engaging nature of its six-tackle rule. Northern State Rugby League interim president Alan Tuinasoni reinforced the need for clubs in the division to focus on creating women’s teams, noting the active participation in the Labasa and Dreketi zones.
This initiative reflects a promising future for rugby league in the Northern Division, with potential growth in both male and female participation. The focus on grassroots development may inspire many young athletes to explore opportunities in a sport that is gaining respect and recognition.
This article serves as a hopeful glimpse into the future of rugby league in Fiji, highlighting both a commitment to nurturing talent and the increasing inclusivity of the sport.
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