Teaching the fundamentals of rugby league to enthusiastic players is crucial for cultivating a robust talent pool in the Northern Division. This insight was shared by the head coach of the Fiji Bati, Wise Kativerata, during an interview following a two-day introductory rugby league workshop held in Labasa.
Kativerata emphasized that the perception among young people that only rugby sevens and fifteens are the prestigious codes must change. He highlighted that rugby league is an emerging sport offering pathways for young athletes to develop their skills and potentially secure professional careers.
He referenced local talents like Semi Valemi and Semi Radradra, who originated from the North and have successfully played in the Australian National Rugby League (NRL), demonstrating the opportunities that rugby league can provide.
“Rugby league is a straightforward sport, but grasping the fundamentals is essential for players to excel,” Kativerata noted. He expressed optimism about the potential for Northern players to join professional clubs abroad.
He stressed the importance of grassroots development, advocating for the introduction of players as young as 14 into the sport. This initiative is part of a six-year project aimed at developing rugby league in Vanua Levu and other maritime islands beyond Viti Levu.
Motu Lalagavesi, a female coach of the Macuata women’s rugby team, expressed her enthusiasm for the sport, encouraging more women to explore rugby league. She found the six-tackle rule particularly intriguing and enjoyable.
Northern State Rugby League interim president Alan Tuinasoni highlighted that the 22 clubs within the division have been instructed to also focus on establishing women’s teams. The zones of Labasa and Dreketi are particularly active, with Labasa supporting eight clubs, while Dreketi-Seaqaqa has eight and Bua consists of six clubs.
This focus on development is not only beneficial for creating a vibrant sports community but also empowers individuals, particularly women, to participate and thrive in rugby league. With ongoing support and structured initiatives, the future of rugby league in the Northern Division looks promising.
Overall, the efforts to expand the reach of rugby league provide a hopeful outlook for aspiring players, ensuring that more individuals can discover their potential and opportunities within the sport.
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