New Development model for Kaji Rugby

Fiji Rugby Union Development Unit is working on a new development model aimed to be implemented to the Kaji Rugby later this year.

Grassroot rugby is so crucial as it holds the future of the game, it’s the base of rugby and laying its foundation is critical as setting the right tone and direction for the future of rugby.

Early development helps shape young ruggers and instil all elements that build their character to become the best on the field.

This factor also gives rise to the transition of local competition to another level as these upcoming players are well developed which changes the tone of domestic games.

In partnership with Fiji Primary School Rugby Union, Fiji Rugby Union Development Unit has set some plans for Kaji Rugby in terms of implementing some new rules to suit the lower grades and help improve their game at a young age.

Fiji Rugby Development Manager Koli Sewabu explained that the law modification is based on how many number of players is best suitable for the under 7-11 for both girls and boys category.

“We’re trialing out what numbers we will implement and what sort of skill sets we will be focusing on and Ideally what we’re trying to do is to find out what number is ideal for these grade.”

Sewabu explained that they’re are looking to add Under 7 and 8 to the competition which will align with under 9-11 in terms of its laws.

“Previously the Kaji Rugby Competition is from under 9 to under 14 and this year we’re taking away the under 9, 10 and 11 from contact rugby, and the under 12-14 will still be doing contact rugby and as for under 7-11 they’ll be doing tag rugby.”

The main reason for the changes is the safety of the players and also focusing on the basic skills of the game while having fun.

“After this we will review, look at what law modification we could add on to this, trial it again until we’re absolutely sure which new rules we’re going to implement to Kaji Rugby.”