Vodafone Kaji Nationals kick off in Suva with 28 districts
The 2025 Vodafone Kaji Nationals have been officially launched at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, signaling three days of intense rugby action set to begin on September 2. This year’s edition will feature 28 districts, almost doubling last year’s 16, underscoring the rapid growth of the sport at the grassroots level.
Fiji Primary Schools Rugby Union President Sakiusa Niumataiwalu said the jump in participation not only makes the competition bigger and more competitive but also highlights the depth of young talent shaping Fiji’s rugby future. “Previously we had sixteen districts; for 2025 we now have 28 teams, including Suva, Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, and others,” he noted, expressing anticipation for an exciting three-day tournament that falls in the second week of the school holidays.
Niumataiwalu emphasized that the competition serves as the starting point for Fiji’s future rugby stars and is essential for nurturing talent until players progress through the Deans and Raluve pathways. The event reinforces the country’s long-standing emphasis on developing players from a young age, with the broader aim of sustaining Fiji’s standing in the sport.
Photos accompanying the coverage capture the spirit of youth development in Fiji, illustrating the ongoing pipeline from primary school rugby to higher levels of competition. The expansion also aligns with broader efforts across Fiji to strengthen governance, safety, and support for student-athletes as they move through the ranks.
Commentary: The surge to 28 districts is a strong indicator of community engagement and the effectiveness of grassroots programs in identifying talent early. By broadening participation, Fiji stands to uncover hidden talent in both urban and rural districts, which could enrich the nation’s rugby talent pool in the years ahead.
Summary: The launch marks a milestone for Fiji’s school rugby scene, expanding the Kaji Nationals to 28 districts and reinforcing the nation’s commitment to cultivating future rugby stars from a young age. The event sets the stage for a competitive three days of action and a clearer pathway from primary-school rugby to higher-representation levels, with optimism for a bright future for Fiji rugby. Positive outlook: the growing grassroots platform not only fuels national talent but also strengthens community ties and inspires young athletes across the country.
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