Players urged to respect refs

Rugby players in the domestic competition are urged to re­spect match officials.

Speaking at the launch on Satur­day, Fiji Rugby Union board direc­tor commercial Tevita Tuiloa said this was an issue of concern fol­lowing a recent incident during the Vodafone Vanua Cup competition.

The incident involved two Tavua players who verbally and physi­cally abused the referee during their play-off match against Rewa at Burebasaga grounds last month.

The duo were handed lengthy sus­pensions following a judicial com­mittee hearing chaired by a World Rugby judicial officer.

Tuiloa said FRU has a zero-toler­ance policy on such behavior and upholding rugby values was impor­tant.

"One of the things that we are continually seeing is the disrespect of referees - that needs to change," Tuiloa said.

"You as administrators, coaches, captains and players need to make that change."

Vodafone Fiji head of sponsor­ships shared similar sentiments.

Tuiloa thanked CJ Patel, Subrails and Vodafone for their continued commitment and support towards the grassroots competitions which includes the Skipper Cup, Subrails Marama, Vodafone Vanua and Roy­al Tea Ranadi competition.

The Vanua and Ranadi competi­tions kicks off next Saturday while the Skipper Cup and Marama will begin on August 1.

"You are investing in communi­ties, in young people, women, and men who aspire to wear the white jersey," Tuiloa said.

He added these domestic compe­titions are the foundation of Fiji rugby and creates pathways for players.

Fiji Diary Limited manager sup­ply chain Reshma Narayan said rugby inspired dreams, created op­portunities, and united people.

"Every player who has proudly worn the Fiji jersey on the world stage began their journey here - in grassroots and provincial rugby," Narayan said.

"The Skipper Cup and the Royal Tea Ranadi competition are where those journeys began. This is where raw talent is discovered, confidence is built and future leaders emerge.

"When Skipper Tuna brand became the title of the Skipper Cup in 2014, we made a bold decision; we were not simply sponsoring a com­petition, we were investing in the future of Fiji's rugby."

12 teams will be part of the Skip­per Cup competition this year while 10 teams will feature for the MaramaCup.

Vodafone Vanua Cup will see 14 teams and 10 teams in the Royal tea Ranadi competition.

Taveuni and Rewa are the two new teams promoted to the Skipper Cup this year while Macuata and Ba in the Subrails Marama Cup competi­tion.