THE Fiji Rugby Union took another bold step into the global rugby world, signing an agreement with the China Rugby Association which will create development pathways for local talent.
The memorandum of understanding sees that players receive formal education at top Chinese universities while continuing their rugby development.
The first outcome of that MOU was the selection of six Deans rugby products for a three-year scholarship in China.
These players include Iowane Nabe, Alowesi Nakarawa, Soko Nawaqatabu, Eroni Seru, Josevata Veibete, Lemeki Ravukivuki and Vilimoni Taqiri.
“In that agreement we have these development pathways that have come through and this is the first outcome of that agreement. It has taken a bit of work to get it all signed up but now it is in operation, and we are starting to drive results.
“We got six young men who are going to take a three-year course while playing rugby in China and promote not just rugby but the Fijian culture as well and showing China what Fiji is all about.
“It provides them good avenues of growth but most importantly is that there are other things in the agreement that’s still being worked at and there’s more to come,” FRU board chairman John Sanday stated.
The six departed Fiji on Saturday.
They will be part of the Beijing-based Hua Gang Rugby Club competing in tournaments like the Beijing Cup.
