Mark Evans, CEO of Fijian Drua, highlights the next ten days as crucial for Fiji rugby’s future, marked by significant board elections for Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd and World Rugby. The newly established voting structure aims to promote equal representation, which could catalyze entry into the Nations Cup, enhancing Fiji’s financial stability and investment in grassroots programs.
Mark Evans, the Chief Executive Officer of Fijian Drua, has emphasized the crucial nature of the upcoming ten days for the future of rugby in Fiji, which he describes as a potential “tipping point.” On Saturday, provincial unions and associate organizations will vote for the Board of Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd, which will succeed the former Fiji Rugby Union Board in overseeing the sport’s governance in the nation. Evans recently launched the Drua Academy program, highlighting the upcoming elections’ importance for rugby’s leadership and direction. “This weekend we have the election at the AGM of the new FRU Operational Board under the new, much improved constitution, which gives every provincial union and association an equal vote and a real chance to help decide on the leadership and direction of the organisation,” stated Evans. Following this, the election for the new chair and Executive Committee of World Rugby will take place next week which is expected to significantly influence Fijian Rugby. Evans expressed optimism regarding the new World Rugby leadership potentially supporting Fiji’s entry into the Nations Cup in 2026. He believes that increased games against Tier 1 countries could allow Fiji to rejuvenate the entire FRU business model, promoting financial stability while simultaneously enabling better investment in grassroots programs and national teams. He stated, “If all goes well, I think we may look back on this week in a few years’ time as a tipping point in our journey to get to the top table of the sport.” On another note, Evans refrained from commenting on whether he has been shortlisted for a position on the new Board of Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd, although it is understood that he is among the nominees from several influential provincial unions. With the vital FRFU Ltd Board elections scheduled for this Saturday in Suva, the outcome is anticipated to have significant implications for Fijian rugby’s future.
The impending elections for the Board of Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd signify a momentous transition in the governance of rugby in Fiji. Following the establishment of a new constitution endorsed by both local rugby unions and World Rugby, the upcoming votes aim to create a more equitable governance structure where all entities can equally influence the sport’s direction. This change coincides with broader efforts to enhance rugby’s professional landscape in Fiji, particularly in light of prospective international competitions that could reshape the sport’s financial viability.
In conclusion, the elections of the new Board of Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd and the Executive Committee of World Rugby represent a pivotal moment for rugby in Fiji. With the potential for entry into prestigious competitions and an emphasis on equitable representation in governance, this period could fundamentally reshape the financial stability and growth of rugby at all levels in Fiji. Mark Evans’ insights underscore the significance of these developments and their capacity to enhance the sport’s prospects in the coming years.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
