Joseph Rodan (Senior) has expressed a strong desire to see the Tailevu rugby team reclaim its position at the top of the Skipper Cup competition, set to begin in August. He was elected as the new president of the Tailevu Rugby Union (TRU) during their recent Annual General Meeting in Nausori on May 17, taking over from Dr. Serupepeli Vunisea.
Rodan, who brings extensive leadership experience from his time in athletics and rugby administration, aims to run TRU like a business. In a recent interview, he highlighted the union’s commitment to aligning with its vision and mission through efficient management. Their strategy includes a comprehensive five-year business plan, establishing various committees for coaching, games, and sponsorship, and a budget of $200,000 for the current year, which will also cover player salaries.
He stated, “We know we have a lot of potential players in Tailevu, but in order to get those players playing to the best of their ability, we have to provide the resources.” Rodan cited the success of the Fijian Drua team, which gained significant sponsorship by adopting a business-oriented approach, as a model for TRU.
In the pursuit of community engagement and support, Rodan and the new executive team have initiated visits to villages and districts in Tailevu, beginning with Bau Island next Monday, to share their vision and plans. They have also communicated their strategies to stakeholders, including the Tailevu Provincial Council and local Members of Parliament, in hopes of rallying support for the rugby union.
Rodan emphasized the phrase “winning is key,” stating that the team’s success hinges on its ability to supply players with the necessary equipment and resources for victory, which in turn will attract sponsors. Last year’s expenditure for the Tailevu rugby club and Skipper Cup teams was around $170,000, demonstrating the financial commitment needed to elevate the team’s performance.
The union is also set to launch a 10s tournament this Saturday, which will aid in the selection of their extended squad. With the backing of sponsorships already in place, there is optimism surrounding Tailevu Rugby’s future as it aims to challenge for the Farebrother Trophy and strengthen its position within the competitive landscape of Fijian rugby.
The leadership change at TRU reflects a broader trend within Fiji’s sporting associations toward increased professionalism, enhanced governance, and community engagement, presenting a hopeful outlook for the future of Tailevu Rugby. With Rodan at the helm, the union looks poised for a revitalization that could see it back on top of the competition in the years to come.
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