New Zealand Fijian girls’ rugby coach Jone Fihaki is advocating for the establishment of tournaments like the Global Youth 7s to be held in Fiji, emphasizing their importance in uncovering talented young female players who often remain overlooked. He points out that many skilled girls in Fiji are not receiving the competitive opportunities necessary to shine, as most only play in low-visibility situations without access to higher-level exposure.
Fihaki believes that events like the Global 7s provide a vital platform for athletes to demonstrate their abilities in front of coaches and selectors, potentially paving the way to national representation and further career advancements. He expressed concern that, historically, boys’ rugby has garnered the bulk of attention, yet the surge in women’s rugby makes it equally essential for Fiji to invest in similar competitions tailored for girls.
He envisions that hosting these kinds of events locally would give budding players more opportunities to compete, develop their skills, and gain visibility, which could reveal the vast depth of talent that exists across the nation. Fihaki is hopeful that Fiji Rugby will consider creating local versions of such tournaments, reinforcing support for women’s rugby both within Fiji and among the Fijian diaspora.
In related news, the recent Global Youth 7s concluded in Auckland, where New Zealand’s girls and boys under 18 teams claimed victory. Fihaki’s call to action highlights a growing recognition of the need to foster female rugby talent, which may lead to a brighter and more equitable future for women’s sports in the region. This focus on broadening participation could not only enhance the skill level within the sport but also inspire a new generation of female athletes.