Tailevu Rugby Union (TRU) president John Whippy has called on people of the province to support their campaign as they aim to restore lost glory.

“We are under new management now and will be focussing on developing rugby from our clubs all the way to the provincial level,” Whippy said.

Tailevu was relegated after a disastrous 2016 Skipper Cup season, while Northland Tailevu bowed out last.

“First thing we will work on strengthening our club competition which was an area that was neglected by the past management. “But rest assured a lot will change for Tailevu Rugby this year.”

The newly elected TRU management have a lot on their plate in terms of convincing their affiliated clubs that things would change.

“That is the challenge that we have in front of us, not only in retaining their lost belief, confidence and faith in us to lead them well and develop the promising players in our province.”

Whippy said past management paid no attention to the progression of their club games once the provincial teams had been picked for the Skipper Cup.

“But that will change, as our provincial team grows so will our clubs and we will make sure that there are improvements made in our weekly club fixtures.

“These changes will allow growth, development and opportunity for our club players.”

TRU secretary Josefa Turaganivalu said they would not only be aiming at getting back to the Skipper Cup competition.

“But more importantly to bring back the lost rugby glory to Tailevu.”

Over the years Tailevu Rugby have produced top international players like Rupeni Caucaunibuca, Seremaia Bai, Henry Seniloli, Inoke Male, Waisiki Masirewa, Timoci Nagusa, Sunia Sevu, Meli Tamanitoakula, Kini Murimurivalu, Waqabaca Kotobalavu and the list goes on.

The TRU will be having their JBT Memorial Rugby 10s tournament finals this Saturday at Ratu Cakobau Park, ground 2, in Nausori.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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