Exciting times ahead: Sanday

The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is expecting more interesting developments for rugby in the region with the Veimoana Partnership proposal.

FRU board chairman John Sanday acknowledged the Samoan government for finalising their negotiations.

The proposed Veimoana Partnership boasts about AUD $150 million (FJ$234m) for a five-year partnership for Australia, Fiji, Samoa and Tonga rugby unions.

“We are very excited,” Sanday said.

“We thank Prime Minister of Samoa for finally getting it over the line.

“We are moving into the phase where we want to start getting to plan and how we’re going to shape what the Veimoana project is going to look like.

“It’s going to be an exciting time for rugby in Fiji, Tonga and Samoa and Australia - it’s a great time.

“It comes along with the Rugby Nations Cup. We got World Cup next year and Under-20 World Cup also.

“It’s a good time for everyone to come together.”

Sanday also thanked the PacificAus Sports programme and the Australian government for the work they’ve done throughout the years.

Reflecting on the Vuvale Week, Sanday said it was great to see the partnership of the two nations strengthening ties not only at government level but also at rugby level.

“Taking the rugby message to Beqa, for me personally, it was to connect with the people of Beqa, take the value of rugby and also to remind them that they are part of us. Having Drua players, former Wallabies inspire these young kids so they can chase the dream. Most of the players in the Flying Fijians come from villages like this - if they really want to do it they can set their mind to it.”