League Gain Status
The hike in the number of secondary schools playing rugby league is a testament to Fiji Bati’s world ranking.
Yesterday, 87 schools confirmed their participation in the 2022 Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League competition. This was launched at Albert Park in Suva.
Fiji Bati’s reaching the World Cup semifinals in 2008, 2013 and 2017, and their current ranking at 5th spot in the International Rugby League’s World Rankings play a big part.
Marist Old Boys Viliame Kikau and Roosters recruit Vuate Karawalevu like NRL stars Semi Valemei (Ba Provincial Secondary School), Marika Koroibete (Nasinu Secondary School), Suliasi Vunivalu (Lelean Memorial School), Jiuta Wainiqolo (Ratu Kadavulevu School) and Virimi Vakatawa (Nasinu Secondary School) are products of this competition.
The stakes are high as more young players now look to make it big in rugby league.
Penrith powerhouse Kikau is on a four-year deal worth just over $800,000 per season makes this pathway a lucrative path.
Speaking to Sunsports Fiji Bati head coach Joe Rabele said the increase in schools participating was encouraging.
“This is a positive sign for FSRL and FNRL. The increase in the number of schools will boost our Fiji Bati environment,” Rabele said.
“There are 42 teams from the South East Zone, 32 from the Western Zone, three new schools from the North and 10 schools to be registered soon.
“We are trying to set up an academy from the U15’s right to the 19’s, this platform is the biggest for us to identify new talents.
“This is the opportunity to get raw talent, introduce them to the system and guide them in the right direction.
“It’s a big blessing for rugby league in Fiji because with an academy in the pipeline it is best to start with.”
