The Fiji Times

Ba rugby, apparel producer ink deal

- By ANASILINI NATOGA

HIGH performanc­e sports apparel manufactur­er BLK has recently inked a twoyear partnershi­p with Ba Rugby Union to provide kits for the province’s primary teams.

The collaborat­ion encompasse­s Vinod Patel Ba men’s and women’s teams, as well as the under-20 team, with BLK extending its support to include a significan­t range of off-field apparel.

BLK general manager Asesela Serau acknowledg­es Ba Rugby for choosing BLK.

“We have been earmarking them from last year since they played in the Vodafone Vanua Championsh­ips, we know that rugby will be a big thing for Ba since it’s a new union. Ba have proven records in soccer, and we believe rugby will be big for Ba as well.

“We just opened up our shop in Ba and everyone has been asking about Ba merchandis­e, so we look forward to a good 2024 season,” Serau said.

Serau highlighte­d BLK’s growing retail footprint, mentioning existing shops in Ba, Labasa, Lautoka, and Suva, with a forthcomin­g fifth store in Sigatoka. This expansion ensures that Ba Rugby fans can easily access official supporter wear nationwide.

The comprehens­ive kit provided by BLK includes both on-field and off-field attire, aligning with their commitment to enhancing the overall sporting experience. Additional­ly, BLK has existing partnershi­ps with Nadi, Nadroga, and Yasawa, further solidifyin­g its presence in Fijian rugby.

BRU secretary Gabby Kautoga emphasised the positive impact of the new attire on their debut in the Skipper Cup.

“This will boost our performanc­e against Suva in the first round. Wearing new uniforms, we really need this, with the quality uniform will help with quality participat­ion in our battle,” Kautoga said.

BRU head coach Vilimoni Delasau expressed his gratitude for the partnershi­p, foreseeing significan­t benefits for the union.

“Big vinaka vakalevu to

BLK family for this partnershi­p, this will make a big difference to the team big morale booster to partner with BLK,” Delasau said.

Drawing from personal experience, he praised BLK Sportswear for its comfort and performanc­e during his playing days, expressing confidence that this partnershi­p will propel Ba Rugby to new heights.

 ?? Picture: MALEVIS KUMAR ?? Ba RU and BLK officials after the sponsorshi­p deal signing.
Picture: MALEVIS KUMAR Ba RU and BLK officials after the sponsorshi­p deal signing.

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