The Tailevu Rugby Union is making significant strides toward establishing a sustainable grassroots development program, according to Union President Joe Rodan. This revelation came following their narrow victory against Nadroga, with a final score of 31-29, during the sixth round of the Skipper Cup at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka last Saturday.
Rodan highlighted the partnership between the Tailevu Rugby Union and the Vanua Vakaturaga o Tailevu, which has been pivotal not only in crafting skilled rugby players but also in molding responsible citizens who can positively impact their community and nation. In a statement released on the union’s official page, Rodan commended the team for their hard work in securing the win against the Stallions on their home ground. He extended gratitude to Nadroga Rugby for delivering a competitive match, underscoring that such encounters help gauge the provincial union’s growth and development.
Rodan expressed pride in the players’ resilience and discipline throughout the game, recognizing these matches as metrics to evaluate their progress. Besides on-field excellence, Tailevu Rugby Union also invests in off-field initiatives like the Career Pathways Process and the Life After Rugby program, aiming to equip players with essential skills for opportunities beyond rugby.
Furthermore, Rodan emphasized rugby’s deeper significance for Tailevu, portraying it as a unifier, an empowerer, and a catalyst for transformation. The union aspires to create a legacy combining athletic prowess with a positive societal contribution, supported by their alliance with Vanua Vakaturaga o Tailevu.
Looking ahead, Tailevu Rugby Union’s next challenge in the Skipper Cup is against Nadi, scheduled to take place at Churchill Park in Lautoka. This match is anticipated to further measure their progression and resilience as the cup continues.
The union under Rodan’s leadership has demonstrated a strong commitment to both enhancing the sport and fostering community engagement. Previous reports about Rodan’s strategic agenda show a pattern of aligning sports with financial sustainability, governance, and community service. This evolving narrative intends to uplift Tailevu Rugby not only as a sports entity but as a beacon of holistic development, thereby promising a vibrant future for rugby in the region and beyond.