Fiji Rugby’s first woman director Mere Rakoroi anticipates a bright future for women’s rugby

Mere Rakoroi a strong advocate for women’s rugby in Fiji and the first ever woman director at the Fiji Rugby Union is optimistic that the future of women’s rugby in Fiji is looking bright as ever.

Rakoroi explains that the Union has been laying out strategic plans for women’s rugby from the past years, and she emphasized that all these plans is coming to its fruition.

She explains that responds from various stakeholders have been really positive and Rakoroi knows that long term development plans for women’s rugby are beginning to bloom.

“As you know, Women have been part of Fiji Rugby’s strategic plan from 2017 and their development will continue to receive support,” said Rakoroi.

“As we move into the new normal, “change management” is at the forefront of future strategic planning at the Rugby House,” added Rakoroi.

“Certain new competitions may also be in the pipeline which will enhance women’s rugby in Fiji. Also, with positive feedbacks from the various stakeholders, I am certain that good things will happen for the development of the women’s game.”

Rakoroi said that the Fijiana’s bronze medal win has really intensify the development and strategic plans for women’s rugby in the country, adding that it has somehow rake in interests all over the country.

“Their road to success was not easy, they have been through a lot but they worked, and worked hard, this win is more than just winning Medals, they won the Heart & Respect of our Rugby Fans in Fiji and around the World,” said Rakoroi.

“It will be the Conversation that will be around for a very long time, not only among rugby lovers, but also for non-rugby lovers, whether it is among parents, grandparents, school kids, work colleagues, etc. it will connect people together & who will learn to appreciate, support our Fijian women in rugby,” she added.

Rakoroi explained that the country has been through a really difficult time during the Covid- 19 pandemic, and the Fijiana and Fijian 7’s win at the Olympics has become that beacon of hope for Fijians which shows that Fijians can overcome adversity.

“During this pandemic, Fiji has been through a lot, and this win, it gave all girls and boys, women and men, the strength that we can still raise above all odds.”

“We got (IOC) International Olympics Committee to thank you and having our very own, Fijiana captain Rusila, to stand and share the same stage with other Olympic sport hero’s, which was witnessed by millions of viewers across the world.”

“That is global rugby impact right there!

Rakoroi added that rugby is more than just a sport, it teaches self-confidence, discipline, teamwork, respect & most of all, how to be a great sportsmanship.