Republic of Fiji Military Forces commander, Rear-Admiral Viliame Naupoto said the 2020 Sukuna Bowl clash would be for charity.

Funds raised would be directed to the people of Fiji who are affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Defending champions, RFMF, will be hosting this year’s tournament on December 11 at the ANZ Stadium, Suva.

Rear-Admiral Naupoto acknowledged both forces for their hard work in working with other frontline agencies to keep Fiji COVID-19 contained.

“The theme of Sukuna Bowl 2020 is Rise Fiji Rise. The theme reflects the spirit of the nation now as we navigate through the challenges brought about by the pandemic,” he said.

“Sukuna Bowl is not only encouraging people to rise from the low ebb of this pandemic but we want to physically help also.

“To that effect, both forces have decided that Sukuna Bowl 2020 will be a charity event where all the money from our share of the gate- takings, and all pledges of assistance will go towards assisting as many children as we can do who are struggling because of the economic effect of the pandemic.

“To kick start this drive, the RFMF is donating $20K to this pool which is a donation of approximately $5 per person.”

He hopes that the donations will help in some little way to those school children who are currently struggling.

“So when the dust settles that day, one of the team will raise the Sukuna Bowl and we will also raise the hopes of some young Fijians to keep pursuing their dreams.

“I encourage those who can to contribute to this worthy cause and I thank you, on behalf of the children in advance.

“Sports will always be a big part of the life in the two forces, because sports is a unifier and enhance comradeship and contributes to our physical wellbeing – all important ingredients to the successful conduct of our roles.”

In accepting the challenge, Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police, Itendra Nair said they would come as underdogs next month.

“We want to disclose that it won’t be easy to take back the Ratu Sukuna Bowl to its rightful home in Nasova, but we will give it our best shot,” DCP Nair said.

“We are playing for a cause and a purpose and we hope that we carry through these messages in our respective camps, which is Rise Fiji Rise and for police officers war on drugs.

“Let us fight for the sake of our children,” he added.

Edited by Osea Bola

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