The Kaiviti Silktails Rugby League Football Club recently released their 2025 Community Engagement Report Card, illustrating a year of committed efforts towards community involvement. According to the report, the club achieved 38 official community engagements, amassing a total of 608 hours dedicated to various community projects. This remarkable initiative saw the generation of $258,000 in community project value, with $50,800 amassed in community funds this year alone.
Stephen Driscoll, the club’s executive director, emphasized the importance of these engagements, highlighting their impact through the Kaiviti Silktails Community Youth Program (KSCYP). “Our players and staff are making a lasting impact on their communities,” Driscoll stated, underscoring the club’s dedication to both community engagement and education.
The KSCYP program symbolizes the club’s mission to empower young players through active community participation while pursuing their training. This noble endeavor is named in honor of the late Jacquie Shannon, the team’s first manager, who left a profound legacy. Her silhouette is incorporated into the KSCYP logo as a tribute to her influence within the club.
Shannon, appointed in the pre-season of 2019 and later promoted to general manager, played a crucial role in the club during its relocation between 2021 and 2022. Unfortunately, she passed away from a brain aneurysm on June 18, 2022, in Australia.
The club also partook in the Manoa Thompson Bowl this year, further highlighting their active presence in community-centered events. This engagement with the community reflects the club’s ongoing commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for budding Fijian rugby players and strengthening their local ties.
The substantial community hours, funds raised, and projects indicate that the Silktails are steadily impacting their community, reflecting the depth of their commitment beyond the rugby field. Their efforts not only aim to inspire young talents in Fiji but also strengthen community bonds through shared experiences and collaborative growth. Such initiatives are vital in fostering a spirit of unity and support, underscoring the role of sports in bridging divides and promoting communal well-being.