Fiji Rugby Union Executive Chairman John Sanday has revealed a landmark meeting in London with the Chairman of the Japan Rugby Football Union that is poised to transform the future of Fijian rugby.
The two rugby leaders agreed to sign a Memorandum of Understanding that promises to deepen rugby partnerships between the two nations through annual test matches, coaching exchanges, and development programs.
Under the new agreement, the FIJI Water Flying Fijians and Fiji A or Warriors teams will have annual fixtures against their Japanese counterparts, this opportunity is also extended to the women’s teams from both countries, ensuring regular international fixtures that will boost growth and competitiveness in women’s rugby.
A vital component of the partnership is the attachment of Fijian coaches alongside Japan’s top clubs, working with renowned coach Eddie Jones. This initiative will provide Fiji’s local coaches with invaluable exposure and experience, raising coaching standards and to help nurture rugby talent in Fiji.
The MOU is scheduled to be signed in time for an upcoming summit between the Prime Ministers of Fiji and Japan, Sanday expressed strong optimism about the partnership, describing it as a major step forward for Fiji rugby. The agreement opens doors for more enhanced international competition and knowledge exchange, in what promises to be an exciting era for Fiji’s rugby teams and coaches.
This agreement is poised to unveil an exciting chapter in Fiji’s rugby history, with our recent ascension to tier 1 status this MOU will surely be a boost in retaining our place amongst the best in the world.
