The Suva Rugby Union, which has historically opposed the Fiji Rugby Union, has expressed optimism for the future of rugby after the approval of a new organizational structure. The long-standing critic of the FRU announced its support for the new administrative system at a Special General Meeting (SGM) held at the Novotel Suva Lami Bay Hotel on Saturday. Representatives of World Rugby and various member unions also attended the meeting.
Fijian Rugby is actively striving to be reinstated into the World Rugby Council, and this meeting marks a significant progression towards that goal. The restructuring is seen as a reactive measure to modern needs as Rugby evolves, according to Suva Rugby Union secretary, Nemani Tuifagalele.
Tuifagalele acknowledged early teething issues, but applauded the inclusion of a commercial and operational arm in the new structural layout. The Union’s only concern is related to the newly formed Fiji Rugby Union Pte Ltd, a company established to manage critical operations.
“We accept the management company,” Tuifagalele said, cautiously voicing some concerns. He pointed out that while they are trying to comply with World Rugby protocols put forward in the previous year, they also aspire to carry out things meticulously. The SRU added that amendments to the document could be made within the next two months if required.
Tuifagalele ended on an optimistic note, indicating that the Suva Rugby Union sees the FRU’s new structure as the commencement of brighter days for Fijian Rugby. The Special General Meeting also included discussions around the policy of one union, one vote and the trustees’ deed document.