A recent payment reconciliation document from the Fiji Sports Council (FSC) to the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) revealed a $21,957.51 deduction related to gate losses from a Pacific Nations Cup match. This deduction was taken from the total ticket sales for the Skipper Cup final, which generated a revenue of $84,575.
The gate loss pertained to the August clash between the Flying Fijians and Tonga, prompting inquiries as to why a domestic competition was being used to offset losses from an entirely separate international event. FRU CEO Koli Sewabu confirmed that the organization was caught off guard by this inclusion and promptly reached out to the FSC.
“We noticed it when we got the financial details from the Fiji Sports Council. We immediately called them and told them that it shouldn’t be part of the things they take off in the gate takings because it is separate,” Sewabu explained in an interview. He assured that the issue was quickly addressed, with the FSC agreeing to bill the FRU separately for the gate loss.
The FRU had initially been unaware that the Pacific Nations Cup loss was included in the financial documentation. Sewabu emphasized that this matter should not affect domestic revenue, stating, “It’s part of the national team and not the domestic competition.”
The reconciliation document indicated that the FSC would receive a total share of $46,653.74, while the FRU’s share would amount to $37,921.26. This situation highlights the importance of clear financial practices between sporting organizations to ensure that revenues and losses are accurately accounted for, thereby contributing to healthier financial practices within Fiji’s sports community.
Overall, the swift resolution of the misunderstanding reflects a positive commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of rugby finances in Fiji.