'A powerful commitment': Fiji Rugby approves the establishment of players' association

The Fiji Rakavi Union (FRU) has commissioned the establishment of a Fiji Rugby Players' Association, with player welfare as its primary focus.

It has also endorsed the appointment of former Wallaby and Flying Fijian Ilivasi Tabua as the association's first chairman.

FRU Board chairman John Sanday told RNZ Pacific on Tuesday that the new move is a "pivotal moment in the history of our beloved sport of rugby".

"A moment that signifies a powerful commitment to unity, growth, and the enduring spirit of Fijian rugby. I wish to announce the commissioning of a dedicated group of our esteemed former players to establish the Fiji Rugby Players' Association," he said.

"This initiative is not merely a formality; it is a heartfelt endeavour, a crucial piece in the broader strategy of the new Fiji Rugby Union to rebuild, reconnect, and ultimately, bring our entire rugby family back home. Home is the new FRU we are building.

"For generations, rugby has been the pulsating heart of our nation. It's more than a game; it's a shared passion, a source of national pride, and a powerful force that unites us all. From the village fields to the grand stadiums, the spirit of Fijian rugby resonates deep within our hearts.

"However, like any family, we have experienced our share of challenges. Times where the bonds may have frayed, where lines of communication may have become blurred. We acknowledge that, and we are taking the necessary actions to rectify it."

Last year, members of the Flying Fijians called for the setting up of an association to fight for their rights, following claims that the FRU had delayed payment of allowances during national tours.

Sanday said that they hope the association will embody the values of Fijian rugby: respect, integrity, passion, and unity, "and bring our rugby family back home because we have been frayed for far too long and disharmony has crept in".

'All about player welfare'

Sanday said the association is critical for Fiji Rugby.

"I am a former player who has come up from schoolboy rugby into the Suva club and provincial pathways and into Fiji rep, so I know the pains and struggles that we all go through to chase our dreams," Sanday said.

"Under my watch now as boss of the FRU, I want this association to be set up properly so that the interests of the ex-players are looked after and the interest of players in the modern era are properly protected. I am all about player welfare."

Sanday said the commissioning of this group of legendary players is a testament to the new FRU's commitment to bridging any gaps and fostering a stronger, more inclusive rugby community.

"These men and women, who have donned the white jersey with pride and dedication, understand the unique challenges and triumphs faced by our players," Sanday, himself a former Flying Fijian, said.

"They possess the wisdom, the experience, and the passion to build an association that truly represents the voice of our players."

The push for a Fiji Rugby Players' Association came from regular requests by our Union members. Our Constitution makes reference for the formation of an Association.

Sanday said Fiji union members had requested the setting up of the players association.

The new FRU constitution includes the formation of an association that would represent players - former, current and future.

Tabua and an interim committee, which also includes former Flying Fijian Wame Lewaravu and soon to be appointed female representatives, will work on the eligibility and membership rules.

He said through the association, the FRU is giving due recognition to ex-players for their efforts and passion to don the white jersey and make Fiji proud as a Nation.

There are also hopes that the new association will also consider a membership class for former coaches, administrators, trainers, managers medics, and all those involved but may not have played the game.

Pacific Rugby Players (PRP) chief executive Hale T Pole said they were excited about the move and would reach out to the new committee on how they can work together.

Pole told RNZ Pacific in October 2024 that the PRP is working in the background, negotiating, discussing and making sure players and their families are looked after.

"Pacific Rugby Players support and assist players in identifying and navigating their individual pathways to success, both on and off the field.

"In turn, we encourage our players to continue to develop rugby in our communities for the benefit of our future generations," the PRP websites states.

The PRP is aligned to the International Rugby Players (IRP) Association, which is funded by World Rugby.

The PRP has been working with the Fijian Drua franchise on a financial management program, which has seen players investing in different income generationg projects, while others have been able to buy properties.

https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/529790/call-for-a-fiji-rugby-players-association-gets-support

What it will be

Sanday said the assocaition will serve as a central hub, a meeting point for all current and former players, creating a powerful network of support and camaraderie.

"It will be a place where legends share their wisdom with rising stars, where experiences are shared, and lifelong friendships are forged," he said.

The association will become a medium where players can have a collective voice and also share their thoughts and ideas on how Fiji Rugby can be better.

"We envision this association becoming the peak body for our players, providing a platform for them to raise their concerns, share their ideas, and contribute to the development of Fijian rugby.

We want to hear their voices, we want to understand their needs, and we want to work together to create a brighter future for our sport.

"It will be a pathway for progress, and the association will play a vital role in ensuring the well-being and development of our players, both on and off the field."

He said it would also provide opportunities for mentorship, education, and career development, empowering players to thrive in all aspects of their lives.

"It will strengthen the FRU partnership and create a formal and strong avenue for communication.

"We want to consider the points and issues that the members have, and work together to find solutions. We want this to be a partnership, where the players have a strong voice in the running of the sport."

Sanday is calling on all former players and current players to embrace this initiative, "to join hands, and to work together to build a legacy that will inspire generations to come".