Rugby’s top Awards celebrated in Suva.
The 2019 FRU Annual Awards Gala which was held at Grand Pacific Hotel was a joyful night filled with memorable moments for many, with the astonishing Conservatorium of Music choir entertaining the guests and the presence of lovely family members, players, cooperates, company, staffs and fans that turn up to enjoy the night.
The awards in partnership with FBC aired its first ever live broadcast, so not only the attendees enjoy the night but also a chance for the general public to be part of the success in Fiji Rugby.
The awards saw a sold out ticket sales in which more than 400 people attended on Friday night including the chief guest Prime Minister Honorable Frank Bainimarama who stated in his opening address that “Rugby has always been a uniter in Fiji”, in fact it was as the awards brought so many people together and gave the chance to some fans who attended to meet their rugby stars and have the time to greet and chat with them during the night.
FRU also unveil some changes to its positioning including a refreshed Fiji Rugby logo and other brand structure changes. The new makeover Masi designs was also introduced which is unique to Fiji Rugby and is to be applied to the national teams jersey and other FRU products
PM stated that the changes made is a reflection of our culture and heritage and creating a sense of continuity and connection to the values of our teams.
The event presented a total 16 category awards and is as follows.
Female 7s player of the year- Lavenia Tinai
Male 7s player of the year– Jerry Tuwai
Administrator of the year– Tiko Matawalu
Coach of the year– Senirusi Seruvakula
Domestic Player of the year– Frank Lomani
Match official of the year– Tevita Rokovereni
Primary School Player of the year– Waisea Tuiyabayaba
Secondary School player of the year- Jone Vatuwaliwali
15s Female player of the year– Rusila Nagasau
15s male player of the year– Semi Radradra
Team of the year– Suva senior team
Fijian Drua player of the year– Alivereti Veitokani
Under 20 player of the year– Vilimoni Botitu
Pacific Rugby Players Outstanding Commitment– Vilikesa Ravutu
Hall of fame award– Ilaitia Tuisese
Fiji Rugby Lifetime Achievement– Paula Cavu
Fiji Rugby CEO Mr. John O’Connor would like to appreciate and thank everyone who attended the awards night and including major sponsor partners and local unions, Fiji Airways, Vodafone, Fiji Water, ISC, CJ, Patel, Carpenters Motors, TFL, Swire Shipping, Paradise Beverages, Nagindas, FBC, DHL, Vision Group, Jacks Fiji, Novotel, Suva Marsh, BLK, Tanoa, Plaza, Australian High Commission, Carpenters Motors, Fiji Sun, Bred Bank, Tower Insurance, Fiji National Provident Fund, Ministry for Youth & Sport, Suva Rugby, Namosi Rugby, Vatakoula Rugby Club, Naitasiri Rugby Club, Nadroga Rugby Club, Northland Rugby, and Fiji Schools Rugby.
The awards night closes of with guests, players and other attendees enjoying drinks and the company of some very talented and beautiful live music from the Corrections Band.