The Fiji Primary Schools Rugby Union (FPSRU) has marked a significant milestone by introducing girls’ rugby for the first time at the national Kaji competition, which commenced yesterday after a five-year hiatus. The event, which is taking place at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, features more than 3,000 participants in the Under 13 and 14 age groups for a celebration spanning three days.
In the earlier grades from Under 9 to Under 12, teams competed at the district level. FPSRU President Sakiusa Turagabeci stated that the FPSRU is Fiji’s largest union, boasting around 22,000 boys and 11,000 girls registered across the Under 9 to 14 categories.
“We are thankful that we are laying out the platform for rugby in terms of development,” Turagabeci expressed. He emphasized that this initiative aims to provide young athletes with their first step into rugby, despite not receiving the same recognition as adult leagues.
Turagabeci noted that many districts were unable to participate due to not meeting specific FPSRU requirements, such as submitting financial reports and ensuring that all coaches possessed Level 1 accreditation from World Rugby. Out of the 39 districts, 17 were able to fulfill these criteria, with many still in the process of achieving required coaching certifications.
Participating districts included Taveuni, Waidina, Suva (both Blues and Whites), Rewa, Ra, Ovalau, Northland, Nadroga, Navosa, Tailevu, Cakaudrove, Serua, Ba, Wainimala, and Highlanders. Turagabeci acknowledged the challenge of geographical barriers and communication issues that hindered timely submissions from some schools, but expressed hope that all districts would be able to participate next year.
He remarked, “We may not be front-page news, but every time a Fiji rugby team lifts a cup overseas, primary school teachers across Fiji feel grateful because they recognize this is where it all began.”
The FPSRU also expressed gratitude to Vodafone for covering transportation costs, providing shuttle buses daily, and supplying team jerseys. “Teams will only need to take care of their own meals; we are striving for a time when rugby participation will be free of charge.”
In a heartwarming moment, Turagabeci acknowledged Fiji 7s men’s head coach Osea Kolinisau, who served as the chief guest at the event. The sight of him brought emotional responses from many of the young players as they saw an inspiring figure they often admired on the field.
This year’s competition signifies a hopeful future for girls’ rugby in Fiji, opening doors for young athletes and ensuring that the sport continues to thrive at the grassroots level.
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