The Kaiviti Silktails have announced a groundbreaking three-year partnership with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Founded in 2020, the Silktails initially competed in the Ron Massey Cup under the NSWRL before moving to the Jersey Flegg Cup competition, focusing on identifying and nurturing Rugby League talent from Fiji.
In recent seasons, the Bulldogs have intensified their involvement in Fijian rugby, spurred by the signing of Fiji Bati International Viliame Kikau. With the establishment of “The Kikau Academy,” the Bulldogs’ teams in the Ron Massey Cup and Jersey Flegg have made three visits to Fiji in the past year.
This new affiliation aligns with the Bulldogs’ representation in the upcoming 2025 Pacific Championships, which features Fijian players like Kikau, Kitione Kautoga, Jethro Rinakama, Penioni Tagituimua, and the Bulikula squad members Ilisapeci Bari, Abigayle Sekitoga, Latisha Smythe, and Nanise Vakacavu. It also coincides with the return of Fijian international Marcelo Montoya in 2025.
General Manager of Football Phil Gould expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the potential to significantly enhance the development of Rugby League in Fiji. He stated, “This is a groundbreaking partnership that will be paramount in the development of Rugby League throughout Fiji.” Gould also noted the existing strong presence of Fijian players in the club, including Kikau in the NRL and Smythe in the NRLW, and underscored the importance of nurturing this pathway in the coming years.
Kaiviti Silktails Chairman Peter Civoniceva praised the Bulldogs’ Pathways Program and expressed excitement about the new collaboration. “Our club is thrilled to partner with the Bulldogs for many reasons,” said Civoniceva. He praised the Bulldogs for their impressive performance in the NRL and the success of their Pathways Program, emphasizing the importance of aligning with a strong initiative.
Civoniceva also noted the significant Fijian community in the Canterbury-Bankstown area and commended the Bulldogs’ active efforts in Fiji over the past two seasons, reflecting on the commitment shown by Gould and Adam Hartigan during their recent meeting.