The stage is set for a weekend of exciting rugby action at the National Stadium in Suva.
All roads lead there as the finals kick off in the Skipper Cup, Under-20, and Marama Cup competitions, a celebration of Fijian rugby at every level.
And what a story it has been so far. In one of the biggest shocks of the season, rookies Malolo have stormed into the Skipper Cup final. The newcomers, once considered minnows, have defied the odds and the old order of Fijian rugby. They earned their place in the grand finale with a 31-19 win over Nadi. Their opponents, the mighty Naitasiri, showed their own class, brushing aside Tailevu 31-26 in the other semi-final.
Over in the Marama Cup, Namosi and Suva will face off in what promises to be a fiercely contested final. And in the Under-20 showdown, Naitasiri take on Nadi.
For many fans, Malolo’s rise is the headline. Their story is one of perseverance and belief. It’s proof that hard work and discipline can turn dreams into reality. And perhaps, it’s exactly the inspiration Fijian rugby needs right now.
For years, we’ve talked about potential. We’ve celebrated natural flair and raw talent. But what we are seeing now, from the local scene to the world stage, is transformation. The Fijian Drua franchise has been at the heart of that change. It has shown our players what true professionalism looks like.
Our players are competing with, and beating, some of the best teams in world rugby, right here at home. The Drua have become a mirror, showing every young player in Fiji what is possible when talent meets discipline.
The lesson is clear: the days of taking rugby lightly are gone. Gone are the nights of endless kava sessions followed by casual club games. Today’s players know what it takes. They need structured training, proper nutrition, focus, and an unbreakable mindset.
And the results are showing. The rise of teams like Kadavu and Ba signals the widening reach of the game. The depth of competition is improving. The inclusion of the Flying Fijians in the new Rugby Nations Championship next year, following their promotion to Tier One status, is further proof that we’re on the right path.
But progress doesn’t happen by chance. It needs commitment, from unions, coaches, administrators, and fans. We must strengthen grassroots rugby, scout for talent early, and provide young players with proper systems to grow.
Not everyone will wear a white coat, fly a plane, or sit behind a desk. Some will wear a jersey, and through rugby, they can lift their families and communities.
That’s the beauty of sport. It can transform lives. But it takes more than raw ability. It takes sacrifice, discipline, and the right environment.
This weekend’s finals reflect where our rugby is heading. Bold, competitive, and full of promise. The energy, the spirit, and the dreams that will fill the National Stadium are a testament to a nation that lives and breathes the game.
As we cheer on our teams, let’s remember that rugby has always united us. It’s part of who we are. So let’s rally behind our players, nurture our talent, and build on the incredible foundation we already have.
Let’s stay united, focused, and disciplined. Sceptics may insist, the best is yet to come!
