Five players from the Kaiviti Silktails are set to embark on a new journey in Sydney as they join the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs for their pre-season training. This move is a significant achievement for the players, the Silktails organization, and Fiji Rugby League as a whole.
Akuila Qoro, a standout back-rower from Naiviti in Yasawa, has made headlines by signing a two-year contract with the Bulldogs for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Notably, Qoro is also a member of the national squad, the Fiji Bati. He will be joined by teammates Mika Senibua, recognized as the Best Back, and Meli Wara, who earned the title of Silktails Player of the Year. Both Senibua and Wara will integrate into the Bulldogs’ New South Wales Cup squad.
The latest developments are a testament to the continued growth and collaboration between the Kaiviti Silktails and the Bulldogs. This relationship emphasizes the Bulldogs’ commitment to nurturing Fijian rugby talent, following their recent partnership. The Bulldogs have significantly invested in the Fijian rugby community, highlighted by their establishment of the Kikau Academy, which has enabled their Jersey Flegg and Ron Massey Cup teams to make multiple visits to Fiji over the past year.
The influx of talent continues with the younger generation making strides as well. Jerry Ramasima, a former student from RKS and the son of ex-Fiji 7s representative Suli Ramasima, along with Samu Radovo from Kikau Academy and Nasinu Secondary School, are set to join the Bulldogs’ Under-19 SG Ball team.
This partnership not only opens doors for these talented athletes but also strengthens the emerging pathway for Fijian players to reach the National Rugby League (NRL). As noted by Phil Gould, General Manager of Football at the Bulldogs, this collaboration is anticipated to play a critical role in advancing rugby league in Fiji, encouraging the sport’s growth in the region.
Overall, the future looks promising for the Kaiviti Silktails players making their mark in Sydney, alongside the ongoing efforts to elevate Fijian talent on the international rugby stage.