Latest news with #FijiRugby
ABC News
16 hours ago
- Business
- ABC News
Fiji Rugby seeking future financial security by teaming up with China in a development partnership
The decision by Fiji Rugby to sign a memorandum of understanding with China Rugby was based on what the union says was the need to take quick but considered steps to secure the long term viability of the sport in the islands. Jenny Seeto from the union's Board of Trustees was in Beijing to seal the landmark deal. And she says it will reap benefits for Fiji Rugby, in the face of the NRL making fast strides in Fiji and across the Pacific with significant outside financial support. Viewed as one of her country's most successful businesswomen, Ms Seeto says the MoU is based on mutual support for rugby in Fiji and China. And while there may have been an element of diplomacy involved in discussions, she says the potential impact on the union's finances was the key selling point.
RNZ News
a day ago
- Business
- RNZ News
"Celebration and reflection"
Waisea Nayacalevu of Fiji leads his teammates as players of of Fiji perform the Cibi prior to the Rugby World Cup France 2023 match between Australia and Fiji at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard on September 17, 2023 in Saint-Etienne, France. Photo: World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images The former Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu, has announced his retirement from test rugby. Nayacalevu, 33, made the announcement through the Fiji Rugby Union in Suva on Wednesday. He made his international debut in 2012 and went on to earn 43 caps for the Flying Fijians, becoming a fan favorite for his powerful runs, defensive prowess, and inspirational leadership. He captained Fiji at the 2023 Rugby World Cup and Fiji famously beat Australia 22-15, the first time they had beaten the Wallabies in 15s for nearly 70 years. Nayacalevu was also involved in a spat with the union after he alleged corruption in the ranks. In a tell-all with the Daily Mail, he made claims including that the team almost boycotted the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarterfinal match against England because they weren't paid what was "promised" to them by the union. The union said it engaged the services of I. Naiveli & Co Chartered Accountants to conduct an investigation, and no players came forward with evidence of corruption. Waisea Nayacalevu of Fiji leads the Cibi during the Rugby World Cup France 2023 match between Wales and Fiji at Nouveau Stade de Bordeaux on September 10, 2023 in Bordeaux, France. Photo: World Rugby/World Rugby via Getty Images Before earning his test caps, Nayacalevu was also a key member of the Fiji sevens team. "Today is a day of both celebration and reflection - a day I never imagined would come so quickly when I first wore the white jersey of Fiji back in 2012," he said. "After more than a decade representing my country, my family, and myself on the rugby field, I stand before you to announce my retirement from international rugby. "This is not an easy decision - because rugby has been more than just a game to me. It's been my passion, my purpose, and my teacher. "It has taken me around the world, allowed me to form lifelong bonds, and given me the honor of standing shoulder to shoulder with warriors who bleed for this nation." Nayacalevu thanked his team-mates, saying they had "become my brothers". "We've shared sweat, pain, joy, and glory together. I'll carry those memories forever. "To the coaches and staff who believed in me and helped shape me into the player and man I am today - vinaka vakalevu." Waisea Nayacalevu of Fiji celebrates after he dives in to score a try against Wales Photo: PHOTOSPORT Nayacalevu said he owed a lot to his family, and also paid tribute to the fans. "To the people of Fiji - thank you for your endless love. Whether it was a roar from the crowd at home, a flag in the stands overseas, or a quiet word of encouragement - I felt your pride every time I stepped onto the field." FRU Board chairman John Sanday, said Nayacalevu was a true Fiji rugby ambassador "on and off the field". "His dedication, skill, and leadership have inspired countless young players across the nation," Sanday, a former Flying Fijian himself, said. "While we will miss seeing him in the white jersey, his legacy will live on." Flying Fijians head coach, Mick Byrne, also acknowledged Nayacalevu. "Waisea has been an inspirational captain for many years. Leading them through a successful 2023 [Rugby World Cup]," Byrne said. "It was a pleasure to work with Waisea over the past season. He was very supportive and a strong voice for the players." Nayacalevu will continue playing club rugby in France for Nice. He is expected to play in France's third tier, Pro D2, having played previosuly for Ospreys in Wales, plus Stade Français and Toulon in France.
ABC News
15-05-2025
- Business
- ABC News
Fiji Rugby makes landmark decision to appoint former national team player Koli Sewabu as CEO
The Chairman of Fiji Rugby, John Sanday, says the union has taken an historic step by appointing former Flying Fijian, Koli Sewabu, as their chief executive. Sewabu, who won 27 caps and played for Fiji at the 1999 World Cup, has been appointed on an interim basis for the next six months, after the FRU parted ways with the previous CEO, Rovereto Nayacalevu. But it looks very much as if the job is there for the taking, if Sewabu measures up to the faith that the board have put in him. In the past the role of CEO has invariably gone to someone with a management background, but John Sanday says they have turned to a former player to lead the union in a new direction. And now the aim is to raise performance standards on and off the field, to match those of the world's leading rugby countries.
RNZ News
15-05-2025
- Business
- RNZ News
Fiji Rugby chief executive Roverto Nayacalevu resigns after one year in role
Fiji Rugby House Suva Photo: Alex Perrottet/RNZ Fiji Rugby's chief executive Roverto Nayacalevu has resigend just 12 months into the role. Nayacalevu was appointed to the role in May last year. In a statement on Wednesday, the union said officially stepped down from his role "effective immediately, due to personal reasons. Fiji Rakavi Football Union Board, the operational and governance body for the union, has appointed former Fiji international and rugby executive Koli Sewabu as acting CEO. Sewabu brings a wealth of experience both on and off the field, having represented Fiji at the highest levels and held various leadership and development roles within the game, the statement said. "Mr. Sewabu's appointment ensures continuity and stability during this transition," said the Chairperson of FRFU Ltd. "We are confident in his ability to lead the organization as we continue to reform, grow, and elevate Fijian rugby." The statement said his leadership transition does not impact the direction or momentum of the ongoing reforms. It said Fiji Remains committed to strengthening governance and transparency, expanding commercial partnerships and financial sustainability, supporting provincial unions, players, and grassroots development, and driving high performance in both the 15s and 7s programs for men and women. "Stakeholders, sponsors, players, and fans can be assured that Fiji Rugby is firmly focused on building a stronger, more professional, and globally competitive organisation." The Board thanked Nayacalevu for his service and contribution to Fiji Rugby and wished him well in his future endeavors.
ABC News
14-05-2025
- Politics
- ABC News
UNICEF appoints Moemoana as Pacific regional ambassador
Former Miss Pacific Islands, Moemoana Safa'ato'a Schwenke has taken on the role as UNICEF's new Pacific regional ambassador. Fiji's self-described independent opposition MP Ketan Lal says the government needs to 'pull up its socks' and focus on the issues that matter to people rather than internal coalition squabbles. Papua New Guinea broadcaster Cullighan Tanda has been sacked by his company in relation to an interview he conducted with opposition politician Allan Bird. The Chairman of Fiji Rugby, John Sanday, says the union has taken an historic step by appointing former Flying Fijian, Koli Sewabu, as their chief executive. Critics of a decision by the Solomon Islands Government to lift a ban on harvesting sea cucumber, say it undermines the conservation of the creature whose population has been in decline. A pathogen genetics lab, will allow health officials in the country to read the fingerprint of a virus or bacteria. Port Moresby Nature Park is turning all sorts of waste into art. The road to professional soccer in the Pacific has seen the Vanuatu Football Federation join forces with New Zealand club, Christchurch United.
