From left; Fiji Football Association vice-president Yogeshwar Singh, Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel, Fiji Rugby Union chief executive officer John O’Connor and Fiji FA CEO Mohammed Yusuf during the Fiji 7s bid press conference at the Fiji FA Academy in Vatuwaqa, Suva on February 19, 2018. Photo: Peni Komaisavai
The Fiji Football Association is supporting the Fiji Rugby Union’s 7s bid campaign to host one of the World Sevens Series tournaments starting in the 2019/ 2020 competition.
The agreement marked a historic moment for the country’s two biggest national sporting bodies to work together in collaboration for the first time.
Fiji FA president Rajesh Patel said yesterday it was a pleasure to be working with FRU for a joint Fijian bid.
“It is Fiji, we are all Fijians, we need to help each other in a time of need,” he said.
“That is why when FRU approached us that they need our help in getting a World Series tournament in Fiji, without hesitation we said, we will definitely help you.
“Our entire membership of 23 affiliated associations plus the clubs in those district associations are totally behind this bid process.”
FRU chief executive officer John O’Connor thanked Fiji FA for supporting the 7s bid.
“This is a historic moment too because it is the first time for FFA and FRU to be working in collaboration.”
He said gaining Fiji FA’s support for the 7s bid boosted their campaign.
“This proves to World Rugby that we have support in Fiji to host the bid and I think it is the start of a new journey in terms of the two major sporting bodies.”
O’Connor also revealed that both parties would be working together not only with the 7s bid but also in other logistical areas as well.
Edited by Leone Cabenatabua
Feedback: peni.komaisavai@fijisun.com.fj
