Tailevu Rugby plans for 2026 season

The Tailevu Rugby Football Union (TRFU) is already planning for a stronger 2026 season. The initiative came after TRFU executives attended the Fiji Rugby Union Special General Meeting in Nadi last Saturday.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday TRFU president Joe Rodan (Snr) said what was discussed at the SGM helped them plan ahead for next year. 

He said the TRFU needed “a clear understanding of the total yearly budget required to effectively operate a provincial rugby team.” He said this would help Tailevu manage its senior men’s, women’s, and Under 20 teams more effectively next season. 

Rodan said the TRFU plans to strengthen its development pathways. He said long term investment in young players was important because ‘structured development systems will ensure young talents are nurtured, supported, and guided through progressive pathways into elite rugby.’ 

He also confirmed that Tailevu would introduce the women’s Tikina franchise in 2026. 

Rodan said the new pathway would “improve, strengthen, and promote women’s rugby across the province of Tailevu.”

He added that Tailevu would continue to work closely with the vanua next season. Rodan said the vanua remained “the greatest supporter of Tailevu Rugby,” and the partnership needed to be maintained for long term success.

The TRFU also planned to improve its marketing approach to attract more sponsors. Rodan said there was “an urgent need to improve the TRFU’s marketing strategy to enhance visibility” and support rugby development.

Awards Night 

Meanwhile, Rodan also confirmed that preparations for the TRFU’s Awards night were progressing smoothly. 

He said, ‘the preparation for the Awards Night has been going greatly,’ as the TRFU prepares to celebrate players, coaches, officials, and clubs for their work during the season. 

The awards night will be on December 20 at the Vunimono Hall in Nausori. The programme includes a cocktail hour, dinner, speeches, and the presentation of awards with entertainment from Laisa Vulakoro. 

Rodan said the event was an important way to acknowledge the season’s achievements and motivate TRFU as it moves into 2026.