Saukuru sends well wishes to Men’s and Women’s Deaf Rugby teams

Perform to the best of your abilities, and know that the entire nation is behind you with our prayers and support.

This was the message conveyed by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, to Fiji’s Men’s and Women’s Deaf Rugby teams as they prepare to participate in the Pacific Rim Deaf Sevens tournament in Gold Coast, Australia, this weekend.

During the teams iTatau, Saukuru says the government supports athletes with disabilities through funding from the Fiji National Sports Commission.

He urged the teams to represent Fiji with pride, telling the players to fly the Fiji flag high and be great ambassadors, both on and off the field.

Saukuru adds the tournament will feature top teams, with the men's facing off against Australia, Japan, and Samoa, while the women’s competition includes Australia and a Barbarians side.

This historic event highlights the growing inclusivity and recognition of Deaf athletes in Pacific rugby.

The Pacific Rim Deaf Sevens tournament in Gold Coast, Australia will be held on Saturday and Sunday.