Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata has expressed serious concerns about the nation’s national rugby league system, particularly regarding the absence of established player development pathways. This statement follows Fiji’s significant 50-18 loss to Papua New Guinea in the Pacific Bowl Championship final. Kativerata believes that a comprehensive development framework is crucial for nurturing long-term success and improving Fiji’s rugby league prospects.
In the wake of the match, Kativerata highlighted that Fiji continues to yield exceptional talent even without a formalized system in place. He pointed to prominent players such as Semi Valemei, Semi Radradra, Viliame Kikau, and Noa Nadruku, underscoring that these athletes have emerged from a robust talent pool that currently lacks a systematic approach to player progression.
Kativerata drew a contrast between Fiji’s situation and that of countries like Papua New Guinea, which have established development programs, such as their Hunters initiative. He remarked, “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.”
Emphasizing the importance of a structured development pathway, Kativerata noted that it would not only offer young Fijian players vital experience but also expose them to opportunities essential for competing successfully on the international stage. His commitment to this cause includes grassroots initiatives aimed at inspiring the next generation of players who may represent Fiji at higher levels.
Recent efforts within the Fiji rugby league have echoed these themes, with training workshops focused on teaching young players the fundamentals of rugby league. There is a concerted effort to reshape perceptions that prioritize rugby sevens and fifteens over rugby league. Kativerata’s vision is geared towards fostering a supportive environment for growth, setting the stage for a brighter future for rugby league in Fiji, where emerging talents receive the recognition and opportunities they need.
As the nation aims to fortify its rugby league foundation, the focus on nurturing young players and broadening participation across various demographics offers a promising outlook for the sport’s development in Fiji. With dedicated efforts to build the talent pool, the potential for success at both local and international levels remains optimistic.