BOOST FOR PATHWAYS IN FIJI TO CREATE MORE STARS

The Australian Government and the New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) are excited to partner to support the continued development of high-performance Rugby League in Fiji.

Funded through the PacificAus Sports program, a focus of this investment will be continuing to support the participation of the Kaiviti Silktails in NSWRL competitions.

This year, the Silktails are competing in the Jersey Flegg competition for the first time, following successful seasons in the Ron Massey Cup.

This partnership will enhance pathways to elite competition for Fijian Rugby League athletes and enable the development of local coaches, match officials, and support staff.

It will also create more opportunities for the next generation of Fijian sporting stars, and highlight Australia and Fiji’s shared love of Rugby League as a means to further strengthen our sporting, cultural, and community connections.

Jahream Bula with Maika Sivo at Fiji Bati training

Minister for International Development and the Pacific, the Hon Pat Conroy MP said: “Australia and Fiji have a shared love of Rugby League which brings our countries and people closer together.”

“The Australian Government is excited to renew our partnership with the NSWRL through the PacificAus Sports program, to continue to support the Kaiviti Silktails’ participation in elite competition.”

NSWRL Chair Paul Conlon said: “The NSWRL is proud of the partnership we have had with the Australian Government over the past four years, enabling us to play an important role in supporting the ongoing development of future Fijian Rugby League stars.

“It is particularly exciting to see the Silktails playing in our Jersey Flegg Cup competition this year and the opportunities this presents to create high performance experiences and pathways.”

Kaiviti Silktails coach Wes Naiqama said: “PacificAus Sports has given up-and-coming Fiji Rugby League players so much support.

“They get to represent their families, their village, and Fiji by playing in the Jersey Flegg Cup so ultimately they can be noticed by NRL clubs.”