Why the silence at Rugby House?

The silence emanating from Rugby House, Fiji’s rugby headquarters is nothing short of deaf­ening. This iconic wooden structure in Suva, a symbol of our beloved sport, stands as a stark reminder that the heartbeat of our nation is being muffled by a lack of communication and transpar­ency.

Rugby is not just a game in Fiji, it is a way of life that pulses through the veins of our 330 islands, from Viti Levu to Vanua Levu. It’s time for those in charge to wake up from their slumber, as the fans and stakeholders deserve to know what is happen­ing within the rugby corridors.

For the past 16 years, Fiji Rugby has endured a tu­multuous journey through governance challenges, yet many hoped that the leadership change two years ago would usher in a new era of accountability and progress. Instead, the continued silence from the top indicates that the operational duties of this aging institution are deteriorating further.

The occupants of Rugby House owe it to the nation, particularly the unions representing Fiji’s 14 provinces, to commu­nicate effectively and engage with their passionate rugby community. As we enter the first week of 2025, the absence of timely information is alarming. Rugby enthusiasts want to know the year’s calendar of events, national team selections, coaching appointments, interna­tional tours, and particularly the fixtures for local tournaments such as the Skipper Cup and the re­vered Fare brother Trophy challenge.

While New Zea­land and Australia have laid out their plans for the year, Fiji Rugby appear to be disorganised regarding Test matches, the next Rugby World Cup, the Sevens World Cup, and the Women’s Rugby World Cup in Au­gust in England. Even losing one of the world’s icon brand Nike, as a sponsor, is a setback for Fiji Rugby. The lack of updates is not just frustrating, it’s not good to Fiji Rugby’s growth and visibility.

Add to this, the absence of acknowledgment for key figures within our rugby community raises ques­tions about leadership priorities. Former Flying Fi­jians coach Simon Raiwalui, who recently recovered from a life-threatening illness, received no public well-wishes from the FRU despite his commendable service to the nation.

Similarly, the passing of Fijian rugby legend Nasoni Uluvula and former life mem­ber Barry Sweetman went unrecognised, leaving fans and fellow players disheartened by the lack of tribute from the very organisation that should cham­pion their legacy. Fans are the lifeblood of Fijian rugby.

They are the passionate supporters, who fill the stadiums and in­spire the players. Denying fans timely updates and crucial information will only serve kill their enthu­siasm and connection to the sport. It appears that those at Rugby House are operating on ‘Fiji time,’ a relaxed approach that may be charming in some con­texts but inappropriate for rugby.

FRU must prioritise open communication and provide fans with the information they crave. They could pick up a lesson or two from the more engag­ing Drua Franchise.

Otherwise, it is clear that a new leadership approach is necessary-one that is driven by individuals who truly have rugby at heart and are committed to steering the game forward successfully. Fijians deserve better.

Rugby is more than a sport; it is a unifying force that brings us together, and it is time for Rugby House to engage, inform, and inspire.

Feedback: maikeli.vesikula@fijisun.com.fj