Japan & Canada open Pacific challenge next Tuesday

Japan & Canada open Pacific challenge

The first game kicks off at 1.00pm between Japan and Canada on Tuesday 10 March, followed by Samoa and Tonga at 3.00pm then defending champions Argentina will face host Telecom Fiji Warriors at 5.00pm. It’s the first time for the Pampas to visit our shore so we should expect an exciting match between the South Americans and our local boys.

Fiji’s second match is on Saturday 14 March against Japan and the last pool match is on the 18 March against Samoa. Given that all teams are preparing for the RWC2015 later in the year, all coaches are using this tournament to gauge the performance and fitness of their players.

Logistics 

Tonga and Japan arrive in the country on Friday 6 March and the rest of the visiting teams, Samoa, Canada and Argentina are expected in on Saturday. Neighbors Tonga and Samoa will be billeted at the Peninsula Hotel, Canada and Argentina at The Novotel in Lami, Japan at the Tanoa Plaza while our Telecom Fiji Warriors will be accomodated at the Southern Cross.

Legacy Program

The Rugby Legacy programme is designed to capitalize on the tournament with an expectation that more people will participate as players and volunteers; and most importantly for visiting teams to enjoy their stay in Suva and to fully experience Fiji’s culture.

The legacy programme will also promote Suva as a rugby city, one that is capable of hosting International Rugby Matches.

Fiji Rugby Union is working with six schools; Ballentine Memorial School, Latter Day Saints College, Ratu Sukuna Memorial School, Gospel High School, Cathedral Secondary School and Suva Grammar School to adopt the six teams during the tournament.

Fiji Rugby Union hopes to also work in partnership with the Suva City Council in making our visitors feel at home during the three weeks and at the same time promote our beautiful capital. FRU is committed to the programme to ensure a legacy to benefit residents and businesses long after the tournament ends.

Marketing & Promotions 

Although the event is coordinated by World Rugby, the FRU also has the opportunity to engage its local sponsors and suppliers for added value.  Plans are now in place for half-time activation and product promotion on game day.

Ticketing

Tickets are $20 for grandstand, $10 for cement embankment and $5 for grass embankment. Children under 12 years can enter free-of-charge but on the grass embankment only. Tickets are available at Rugby House in Suva and the Fiji Sports Council.