All dues owed to Fijiana Drua and Fijiana 15s players have been settled – FRFUTB

The Fiji Rugby Football Union Trust Board has assured the public and the Fijiana players, that all due payments have been fulfilled.

This follows a facebook post by the Vodafone Fijiana 15s captain, Sereima Leweniqila saying “Do we have to win everytime to be treated right? Could we get paid the amount due to us? What does it take for our voices to be heard? Do we always have to fight to get what we deserve? Pay Us What is Due to Us.”

This morning, the FRFUTB members, Administrator, Simione Valenitabua and Finance met with team manager Vela Naucukidi and reviewed the payment processes, requisitions and vouchers.

The rugby body says it was confirmed to her satisfaction, stating that all dues owed to Fijiana Drua and Fijiana 15s players have been settled.

Naucukidi also shed light on the source of recent social media upheaval, which appears to stem from a misunderstanding about the daily allowance rate for players.

The rate structure, established by the previous administration is :

● Fijiana players receive $300/day during the World Cup and $100/day for the Oceania tournament and the Australia Wallaroos test.

● The Fijian Warriors Men's team receive a daily allowance of $50/day local and $100 while on tour, a rate in effect during their recent victorious run at the World Rugby Pacific Challenge Cup. The FRFUTB had earlier said the Warriors get $27 a day, and this has been amended to the above.

Valenitabua says they are deeply committed to player welfare and exploring partnerships with sponsors to ensure this commitment is upheld.

He says an example of this is the partnership with Rooster Chicken, whose generous bonus sponsorship of $82,000 was fully paid and distributed to the Fijiana Drua team in May 2023.

They also express their gratitude towards the Fiji Government through the Ministry of Youth and Sports for their approved bonus for the Fijiana Drua players, which they are eagerly awaiting.

They appreciate the ongoing sponsorship agreement with Vodafone, who have pledged significant funds for the 2023 season, a gross sum of $1.6 million including in-kind, $497,976 net per year, and $247,086 budgeted for programs until May 2024.

The rugby body also acknowledges the concerns raised by the Fijiana captain and appreciates her leadership and passion for the team.

They encourage all players to continue sharing their concerns and suggestions through the proper channels with the Team Manager.

The Fiji Rugby Football Union Trust Board says they are steadfast in their commitment to finding sustainable solutions that will further enhance women's rugby in Fiji.

The FRFU Trustees and management are currently awaiting reports from the tour coach and management to address any potential issues not yet discussed publicly by the Fijiana Captain or the players.

We are trying to speak to Leweniqila after the FRFUTB’s statement.