Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) Board chairman John Sanday has set forth an ambitious vision as the nation prepares for an exciting year in rugby. At the forefront of these plans is the forthcoming Rugby Nations Cup, a pivotal event that marks Fiji’s entry into the competitive global rugby arena, traditionally dominated by larger rugby nations.
Reflecting on a recent northern tour, Sanday noted that while Fiji’s players demonstrated their talents on the field, the administrative team actively engaged with major tier-one unions behind the scenes. This experience has proven valuable, providing essential insights into the operational dynamics of leading rugby nations.
Sanday emphasized the importance of professionalism at the club level, advocating for teams to evaluate their weekly performances through a profit-and-loss lens. Such an approach will enable clubs to assess crowd attendance and financial outcomes, pinpointing areas for improvement on a continuous basis.
Highlighting the necessity for ongoing professional development, Sanday stated, “It’s about the professionalization. We want to send that message down,” underlining the goal of enhancing global branding and harnessing data analytics to elevate standards across clubs and unions. The focus is on ensuring that all participants operate at levels consistent with international best practices.
Looking ahead, Sanday expresses optimism about Fiji’s trajectory in the global rugby landscape. He acknowledges that achieving tier-one status may take time, but believes that collective growth will ultimately deliver substantial achievements, including aspirations for a Rugby World Cup victory.
With a firm commitment to professionalism, strategic planning, and lessons drawn from elite rugby nations, Sanday’s vision paves the way for a transformative era in Fiji rugby. This forward-thinking approach not only inspires hope for the future of rugby in Fiji but also underscores the nation’s potential to compete among the very best in the sport.