Rugby no longer a pastime: President
President, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere recognised the milestone achieved by the capital city union since its establishment in 1913 during its Olympians celebrations on Saturday in Suva.
Officiating the celebration and unveiling of plaque at the Suva Civic Centre Ratu Wiliame stated that as Fiji’s rugby union capital, “Suva continues to rise and raise the bar in terms of governance, development and performance excellence”.
As patron for the Macuata Rugby Union, Ratu Wiliame always stressed to rural rugby teams follow Suva Rugby’s format and management because good governance is vital.
“Suva teams are being run by intellectuals who have management, leadership skills and passion. I have always mentioned to rural teams the importance of governance that, at times when the vanua is involved in the running of a rugby team, it doesn’t go well with sportsmanship.”
He acknowledged the contribution of different rugby clubs that add to the success of Suva rugby. The dedication, sacrifice and hearts shown at all levels of age group have taken rugby to the premium division.
“This afternoon we come together to celebrate Suva players who have axed their names in Olympic history. Our own Osea Kolinisau of the Covenant Brothers Rugby Club led the 2016 Olympic team to win the first ever Olympic medal for our country, and four years later we repeated that in Tokyo.
“Our Fijiana team comprises of three Suva players and two officials. Even though they were robbed of a gold, the Fijiana team did us proud by leaving with an Olympic bronze medal,” he said.
“Despite the challenges Fiji is facing, the victories at the Olympics birthed to our homes and communities hope, joy, unity and celebration.
“Rugby is no longer a pastime. It’s a means of employment and it reaches all sports and sectors in our nation. Globally, a Fijian rugby player is marketable commodity.
“The large remittance sent back to Fiji from players is testament to this.”
Also present at the event was the Roko Tui Suva, Sanaila Mudunavosa, Suva Rugby sponsors, friends and families of players and officials of the Suva Rugby Union