The Lautoka Rugby Union franchise competition recently kicked off its third round at Nadovu Park, featuring six men’s teams: Vuda Giants, City Steelers, City End Highlanders, Duavata Force, Sukanacagi Chiefs, and Vanua Crushers.
The women’s division saw City Steelers continue their impressive performance with a commanding 37-25 victory against Duiyasana. In the men’s competitions, the Duavata Force secured a dominant 40-13 win over City End Highlanders, while the Vuda Giants had a thrilling finish, narrowly defeating City Steelers 30-28.
Inoke Momoedonu, president of the Lautoka Rugby Union, highlighted the competition’s role in talent identification and reinforcing connections among local rugby communities. After three competitive rounds, 60 players have been named to the extended Lautoka Rugby Union squad for 2025, with the roster expected to be trimmed to 45 as the regular season approaches.
The emphasis on local talent development mirrors previous efforts in the league. The franchise competition, reintroduced to keep players active in preparation for the delayed Skipper Cup season, fosters a competitive environment for an expanded player pool and aims to enhance coaching capabilities in the region. Notably, the initiative has also included a focus on women’s rugby, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity.
The growth of women’s competitions highlights a significant shift towards supporting female athletes in Fiji, fostering a positive outlook for the future of women’s rugby in the area. As the tournament progresses, fans and participants alike are hopeful for continued excitement and development within the sport.
This positive spin emphasizes the community’s commitment to fostering rugby talent, both male and female, while cultivating a spirit of inclusivity and opportunity in sports.
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