Vodafone Fiji yesterday renewed its sponsorship with for another three years.

Vodafone has been in partnership with FNRL the past 16 years and also sponsors the Fiji Secondary School Rugby League competition.

Chief marketing officer, Rajnesh Prasad said they have stood in solidarity with the national rugby league body throughout the COVID-19 pandemic despite the challenges. “Vodafone Fiji has had a long-standing relationship with FNRL dating back to 2006.

We have stood by FNRL over the years and never wavered in providing support from

grassroots development to the international arena.

He added: “Together we have seen many successes including Vodafone Fiji Bati reaching the semi-finals in three consecutive World Cups which is a memorable milestone in the history of Fijian Rugby League.

“Vodafone Fiji is extremely proud of the years of investment done for our youths through the sponsorship of Secondary Schools competitions, fostering some outstanding players.

FNRL’s schools’ competition now boasts the participation of 72 secondary schools.

“With the Rugby League World Cup just months ahead, this should be a welcome boost to the FNRL

coffers. With the funding, we will not only support developmental sports but help to create a pathway

for our young legions.

The secondary schools have been a breeding ground for some outstanding talents that have gone on to don the national jersey and play in the professional NRL competition in Australia like Viliame Kikau Suliasi Vunivalu, and Tui Kamikamica, .

FNRL chairman and Rear Admiral (Retired), Viliame Naupoto, affirmed the continued partnership which has created a special vuvale bond for the two parties; Vodafone and the rugby league communities.

“This occasion is a grand one for Fijian rugby league,” Naupoto said. “Truly amazing to be able to celebrate 30 years of rugby league in Fiji with a renewed partnership that promises development at grassroots and secondary schools’ level and up to the elite pathways programme.

“Winning the Oceania Shield in 2019 is one of the key highlights of our national teams’ achievements

throughout our short history. “We are proud as a sport to have Vodafone continues its long-standing

commercial partnership with the FNRL with an even greater intention to support female participation

into the future.

“This year as we reflect on a resilient 30 years of rugby league in Fiji, we pay respects to the many volunteers, communities and hard working individuals that have contributed their time and effort towards sustaining the sport and upholding FNRL’s vision to be a sport of choice for all,” he added.

“Into the future, we can see rugby league as a sport for all men and women, young and old, without any limitations or barriers and as a sport, our focus for the next three years is on delivering our vision to reach as many Fijian communities.”

Meanwhile, the FNRL top eight premiership competition will return next year. Confirmed teams are; Ravoravo Rabbitohs, USP Raiders, Mataivalu Bears, Navy Albatross, Vusu Raiders and Saru Dragons.

The other two teams will be confirmed after the elimination round on Saturday at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori: Nadera Panthers versus Laselase Cowboys and Namuaniwaqa Sea Eagles versus Police Sharks.

Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj