The Suva men’s touch rugby team is gearing up for the Pacific Cup in New Zealand, although financial hurdles present a formidable challenge. Under the leadership of Coach Charles Cleary, the team has been rigorously training. However, the costs of travel, accommodation, and transport remain a significant concern. Many team members are students or unemployed, underscoring the necessity of external financial aid for them to fulfill their international dreams.
“Funding is a constant struggle for touch rugby in Fiji,” Cleary stated, while acknowledging the support from Suva Touch and the Fiji Touch Federation. He highlighted the urgent need for corporate sponsorships to assist the team. The Suva men’s squad is part of a larger contingent from Fiji, which includes women’s and mixed teams, all preparing for the Pacific Cup.
The team is a rich blend of veteran players, some of whom have experience from the Touch World Cup in England last year, along with emerging local talents. Cleary noted the growing presence of touch rugby in Fiji, with plans to expand development programs in several areas like Nadi, Lautoka, Savusavu, and Sigatoka, supported by the Fiji Sports Commission.
While the sport is growing in popularity locally, with increased community involvement, the team’s current focus is on securing the necessary funds for their New Zealand trip. Cleary remains optimistic that sponsors will recognize the sport’s growth and the potential benefit of supporting athletes seeking international reach. The Pacific Cup, scheduled for November 1st and 2nd, offers a crucial platform for these players to display their skills on the global stage, potentially elevating the sport’s profile in Fiji.
The Suva Touch Rugby Association has made significant progress by securing a spot in the Pacific Cup, underscoring the rising recognition of touch rugby in Fiji and its commitment to fostering local talent for broader international participation. The need now is to build a stronger relationship between corporate sponsors and this rapidly growing sport, opening doors for young athletes to excel and embody the spirit of touch rugby.