Critical Elections Ahead for Fiji Rugby’s Future: Insights from Mark Evans
Mark Evans, CEO of Fijian Drua, stresses the importance of the next 10 days for Fiji rugby’s future, highlighting the elections for the new Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd Board. These elections are part of a restructuring aimed at empowering provincial unions. Evans expresses hope for support from World Rugby’s new leadership for Fiji’s entry into the Nations Cup, which could revitalize the FRU business model and enhance financial stability.
Mark Evans, the Chief Executive Officer of Fijian Drua, has emphasized the forthcoming 10 days as a pivotal period for the future of rugby in Fiji. A critical voting session is scheduled for Saturday, where provincial unions and associated organizations will elect members for the newly established Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd Board, which is designed to replace the prior Fiji Rugby Union Board. This new governance structure promises to empower every provincial union and association with equal voting rights, thereby fostering collaborative decision-making in leadership and direction. Evans articulated the significance of the upcoming elections, stating, “This weekend we have the election at the AGM of the new FRU Operational Board under the new, much improved constitution, which gives every provincial union and association an equal vote and a real chance to help decide on the leadership and direction of the organisation.” Furthermore, the week following this election will witness the selection of a new chair and executive committee for World Rugby. Evans noted that this new leadership committee could substantially impact Fijian rugby, particularly concerning Fiji’s potential participation in lucrative competitions. The Drua CEO expressed hope that the newly elected World Rugby leadership would support Fiji’s participation in the Nations Cup commencing in 2026. He envisions that with increased engagements against Tier 1 nations, both domestically and abroad, Fiji can significantly revamp the FRU business model, enhancing its financial sustainability. He stated, “If all goes well, I think we may look back on this week in a few years’ time as a tipping point in our journey to get to the top table of the sport.” Evans refrained from commenting on his potential candidacy for a Board Director position within the new Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd Board but is reported to have received nominations from several prominent provincial unions. The crucial elections for the FRFU Ltd Board are set to take place in Suva on Saturday, following a resolution approved by both local rugby unions and World Rugby.
The restructuring of rugby governance in Fiji is embodied in the creation of the Fiji Rakavi Football Union Ltd Board, which is intended to enhance the operational framework and inclusive participation of provincial unions. This reform follows deliberations guided by an improved constitutional framework, aimed at democratizing rugby management in Fiji. Additionally, the elections of key leadership for World Rugby are expected to influence Fiji’s prospects in international competitions and financial sustainability within the sport.
In conclusion, the upcoming elections signify a transformational moment in Fijian rugby, with the potential to establish a more inclusive and sustainable governance model. The election outcomes will not only shape local rugby management but will also have a lasting effect on Fiji’s international competitiveness and revenue growth. The expectations are high that these developments will herald a new era for Fijian rugby, propelling the nation towards greater heights in the global rugby landscape.
Original Source: www.fijitimes.com.fj
