Mocelutu Continues Women’s Rugby Development

Women’s rugby development is one of the key areas for Solomon Islands rugby.

Continuing the reach to the grassroots is former national rep and Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) chief executive officer, Alivereti Mocelutu.

Mocelutu started as the SIRUF development manager in 2016 and was appointed CEO in 2018.

He looks forward to the 2023 Pacific Games that will be hosted by Solomon Islands

“Women’s rugby is one of our strategy plans in line with World Rugby’s ongoing strategic commitment to grow the women’s game,” the Maumi, Bau, Tailevu native said

“SIRUF joins Oceania Rugby and other regions throughout September as we celebrate the achievements of women. Their achievement has inspired the generations of both on and off the field.

“Women in Rugby theme is “RESPECT’ will showcase, celebrate, and acknowledge girls and women across the game, all of whom deserve respect for their courage and contributions as elite players, community participants including young girls, coaches, match officials, volunteers, administrators and leaders.

SIRUF had a full month of activities where they hosted holistic programmes apart from the technical aspect of the game.

His role as a development manager was to oversee training and education programmes which include coaches, match officials, strength & conditioning (S&C) Medical, Leadership and Management Training aligned to World Rugby portfolio.

“At the moment we are growing in terms of competition, and participation. We don’t rate ourselves with Fiji and Samoa,” he said.

“Last year we recruited a Women development officer to oversee the women programmes and be responsible for the provision of high-quality local development support to schools, clubs, and community and reach out to the provinces.

“We are progressing and hopefully one day we will be able to compete with other regional unions at a high level.

“Our focus now is the 2023 Pacific Games which Solomons will host,” Mocelutu concluded.