The celebration continues as the newly crowned Skipper Cup champions, Malolo Rugby Union, were honored in Solevu Village, the same location where their inspiring journey began. Malolo Rugby Union President Jone Tuilawa reflected on their remarkable ascent, crediting their victory to years of sacrifice, resilience, and unwavering belief in their vision despite facing numerous challenges.
Tuilawa recounted the union’s modest beginnings in late 2019, noting that it began as a one-man effort to establish the club. He shared memories of the early challenges where team members, based on the islands, had to endure arduous daily boat trips for their matches—an exhausting routine that nearly thwarted their ambitions. The club faced significant setbacks, including a collapse during the COVID-19 pandemic, yet Tuilawa’s relentless efforts led to a revitalization in Nadi by 2022, bringing local players together to rebuild Malolo Rugby from the ground up.
He acknowledged the essential contributions of coaches and former players like assistant coach Jiuta Lutumailagi and head coach Rupeni Nasiga, emphasizing their teamwork and effective communication that played critical roles during this transformative period. Though Malolo encountered disappointments in 2023, their resolve only strengthened, ultimately leading to a powerful performance in 2024 where they not only reached the Vanua Cup final but also qualified for the prestigious Skipper Cup.
This triumphant season marks a historic milestone for Malolo Rugby, illustrating their extraordinary journey from island roots and near collapse to being crowned champions of Fiji’s top provincial rugby competition. The team’s success stands as a beacon of pride for Malolo, embodying the strength of community support, resilience, and hope, projecting a bright future for both the union and its supporters in the realm of Fijian rugby.