For many communities in Fiji’s outer islands, a Skipper Cup match is much more than 80 minutes of rugby, as supporters of the two teams support their food business on game day.
The Fiji Rugby Union echoed these sentiments as Taveuni has hosted Skipper competitions over the past three weeks, bringing players, officials, families and supporters to the island.
FRU says for local families and small businesses, those visiting supporters can make a meaningful difference.
FRU says Barbecues are fired up, pots are filled, tables are prepared, and baskets are packed with cassava, dalo, fish, roti, fruits and other locally prepared foods.
A local vendor, Mere Kusitino, says a busy match day can provide an opportunity for local vendors to earn additional income, support their families and put money back into the local economy.
She says this is particularly important for communities where opportunities to earn cash income may be limited.
Meanwhile, the fixtures for this weeks competion is yet to be released.
