We will work together but don’t spread misinformation – Netball Fiji President

There were some valid and constructive points of discussion raised by the members which included more open communication channel with districts.

Those are the comments of Netball Fiji after their Special General Meeting.

The issues include working together to manage the Fiji Pearls performance and clear communication on development and pathways.

Netball Fiji President, RubyAnn Sorovaki says they will take these on board and immediately begin work with relevant stakeholders to implement action plans so they can work better in these spaces.

Sorovaki adds they thoroughly discussed and addressed all twelve points raised in Motion 1 put forward and following this deliberation the meeting was advised that none of the points raised had breached the Constitution of Netball Fiji.

Netball Fiji also acknowledges the decision of the affiliated associations present in the meeting - Suva, Tailevu, Lautoka, Nadi, Secondary, Primary, Ba and Navosa although was unfortunate to leave the meeting and their stated intention to withdraw their affiliation from Netball Fiji.

Sorovaki says as an organization, moments like these test our resilience and our ability to keep moving forward.

They remain committed to learning from every challenge, listening to what will help them grow and using these experiences to drive meaningful change and growth in the sport.

She says their focus remains on fostering a strong, inclusive, and transparent netball community, as development work continues around the country and training scheduled over the next few weeks to ensure their umpires and bench officials experience refresher training before the season across the country commence.

As a way forward, Netball Fiji will take the learnings from all that has transpired and use it to ensure they can grow and become better at what they do.

Sorovaki says at this stage, they are reviewing the situation internally to see how best they can ensure to meet the needs of those they serve.

Netball Fiji also acknowledges the recent public commentary regarding their governance, leadership and financial management and while they welcome constructive feedback and open dialogue, they are concerned about the spread of misinformation that misrepresents the reality of their operations and commitment to the sport and its growth.

Sorovaki says in their role as custodians of the sport, they will not engage in any manner or form of discussion that creates division or brings disrepute to netball.

She says their focus remains on fostering a healthy and safe environment that supports the sport and its future, their administrators, technical officials, players and volunteers.

Sorovaki stresses that Netball Fiji operates under a clear governance structure guided by their Constitution and the call for a Special General Meeting (is being addressed in full compliance with its procedures.

She reiterates that the claims regarding financial mismanagement and lack of support are inaccurate.

Sorovaki says Netball Fiji adheres to strict financial protocols, including regular audits and transparent reporting.

She highlights every year they present audited accounts at the AGM, and they also work closely with their funders - government through the Fiji National Sports Commission and Netball Australia to ensure all reporting is timely and all funding is accounted for.

She adds they continue to work within their means to provide development programs, competitions, and assistance for the member associations and players.