The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is set to launch an ambitious initiative aimed at advancing women’s rugby, with plans starting in January next year. These programs are designed to enhance the capabilities of the Fijiana teams while strategically gearing up for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup cycle.
The groundwork for these initiatives began in October, as the FRU engaged in dialogue to secure additional high-quality matches for the national women’s 15s team. FRU Board Chairman John Sanday announced that fruitful negotiations with the Head of High-Performance Unit for World Rugby have led to a commitment for a minimum of six elite matches for the Fijiana team in the upcoming year.
The Fijiana’s performances in the last two Women’s Rugby World Cups have garnered significant attention within the rugby community. Sanday remarked that World Rugby has praised the efforts shown by the Fijian women’s teams, noting that the recent tournament served not only as a significant achievement but also as a stepping stone for the future of women’s rugby.
The FRU’s commitment to investing in the women’s game is evident, with aspirations to make the Fijiana a formidable contender at the Women’s Rugby World Cup, set to take place in Australia in 2029. Furthermore, the FRU will continue its annual sevens programs for both women’s and men’s teams, recognizing these as crucial pathways for developing players for national representation.
This proactive strategy reflects a dedication to nurturing talent and expanding the sport’s footprint in the region, creating promising prospects for women’s rugby in Fiji. With a solid foundation being established and increased support from World Rugby, the outlook for the Fijiana is optimistic as they aim for success on the global stage.