Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata has voiced concerns regarding the country’s national rugby league system, particularly its lack of established player development pathways. This acknowledgment comes on the heels of Fiji’s significant 50-18 defeat to Papua New Guinea in the Pacific Bowl Championship final. Kativerata believes that a well-structured development framework is essential for fostering long-term success and enhancing Fiji’s rugby league prospects.
In his reflections following the match, Kativerata pointed out that Fiji continues to produce exceptional talent despite the absence of a formalized system. He cited notable players such as Semi Valemei, Semi Radradra, Viliame Kikau, and Noa Nadruku, highlighting that they emerged from a talent pool that, while impressive, lacks a systematic approach to player progression.
Kativerata contrasted Fiji’s situation with that of nations like Papua New Guinea, which already have established development pathways, such as their Hunters program. He noted, “We started doing it now from the last two years. We’ve started putting together a system, a pathway that we can well recognize in the NRL system.”
Underlining the importance of such a framework, Kativerata emphasized that creating a clear development pathway will not only help young Fijian players gain the necessary experience but also provide exposure vital for consistently competing on the international stage. His commitment to this cause includes various grassroots initiatives, aiming to inspire the next generation of players who could potentially represent Fiji at a higher level.
Earlier efforts within the Fiji rugby league landscape show similar themes. Recent training workshops have focused on educating young players about the fundamentals of rugby league, with a push to change perceptions that prioritize rugby sevens and fifteens over rugby league. By fostering an environment rich in support and growth, Kativerata’s vision is to build a brighter future for rugby league in Fiji, ensuring that emerging talents receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve.
As the country looks to strengthen its rugby league foundation, the commitment to nurturing young players and expanding participation across demographics provides a hopeful outlook for the sport’s evolution in Fiji. With dedicated efforts to develop the talent pool, the potential for success at both local and international levels remains strong.