The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has made a significant advancement in its quest to enhance the international rugby scene by entering into a memorandum of understanding with the China Rugby Association. This agreement aims to establish development pathways for young Fijian athletes, enabling them to access formal education at renowned Chinese universities while refining their rugby skills.
A key milestone from this collaboration is the selection of six talented players from Deans rugby who have been awarded three-year scholarships in China. The recipients of this incredible opportunity include Iowane Nabe, Alowesi Nakarawa, Soko Nawaqatabu, Eroni Seru, Josevata Veibete, Lemeki Ravukivuki, and Vilimoni Taqiri.
John Sanday, the chairman of the FRU board, shared his excitement regarding the agreement, stating, “In that agreement we have these development pathways that have come through, and this is the first outcome of that agreement. It has taken a bit of work to get it all signed up, but now it is in operation, and we are starting to drive results.” Sanday underscored the significance of this initiative, not only in promoting rugby but also in showcasing Fijian culture in China, allowing the players to proudly represent their homeland.
The six athletes set off for China on Saturday and will join the Hua Gang Rugby Club in Beijing, where they will compete in various events, including the Beijing Cup. This initiative not only presents new opportunities for these promising young sportsmen but also signifies a deepening partnership between Fiji and China in the area of sports development. As they engage with a wider global community, the future appears promising for the next generation of Fijian rugby talent.