Fiji Rugby Union takes strides in Women's Rugby Development for future growth

In enhancing the future of rugby for our local Women's teams, the Fiji Rugby Football Union Trust Board today organised a one-day Women in Rugby Talanoa session where representatives had an open dialogue on areas that need attention at this year's Provincial Rugby Competition.

The participants shared knowledge and ideas to contribute towards the drive to move women's rugby forward here in Fiji.

During the Talanoa session, the General Manager of Operations and Development of Fiji Rugby, Sale Sorovaki stated that the program is a valuable initiative to engage with the women's rugby community by fostering collaboration and identifying areas of improvement.

Sorovaki says the commitment to produce not just talented athletes but also good people reflects a holistic approach that can have a positive impact on both the sport and the community.

High Performance Manager for Women’s Rugby, Alana Thomas says 2024 is a new beginning for the Women’s Rugby here in Fiji with two years ahead of them before reaching the Olympic Games for the Fijiana 7’s and the Fijiana 15’s to have the Rugby World Cup qualifiers.

Thomas says they have just seen the Women’s Deaf team win gold in Australia, which shows the growth and depth of talent we have here in Fiji.

She says it’s important to celebrate the achievements, learn from each other’s experiences, and collectively work towards creating an inclusive and thriving environment for women’s rugby in Fiji.

Fiji Rugby Interim Board Member, Jenny Setto says as they try to contribute towards the drive in moving Women’s rugby forward, one of the biggest challenges they face is the financial sustainability of the competitions and national teams.

Seetto says they have some great sponsors who have come on board for the past years, but they need more sponsors to develop and support these competitions.

She says without these sponsors, Fiji Rugby Union would not be able to have these competitions and teams.

The Interim Board Member urge all stakeholders to come on board and support the initiative.