Rugby league in Fiji is growing at an unprecedented rate, with over 100 schools now participating in the sport, including 34 girls’ team.
This expansion is part of a concerted effort to provide opportunities for young Fijian athletes, many of whom may not have the chance to pursue careers in rugby union.
Fiji Bati head coach Waisea Kativerata is a driving force behind this initiative, highlighting the unique opportunities rugby league offers.
“Rugby league is different from rugby union-we’re professional in how we run our programs,” he said.
“We expect discipline, and we’re teaching young players how to be more organised.”
The coach emphasised that rugby league offers a more direct path to professional success, pointing to players like Semi Valemei, who went from playing in Seqaqa to representing Canberra in the NRL in just two years.
This rapid rise contrast with rugby union’s more layered progression, which often takes years to navigate.
The program is focused not only on skill development but also on instilling a professional mindset in young athletes.
Discipline, Punctuality and hard work are core values taught through the rugby league system.
The structured approach is designed to set young players on a fast track to success, whether locally or internationally.
For many, rugby league represents a lifeline, offering scholarships, financial support and the chance to pursue professionalism careers in Australia or New Zealand.
“Once you are at the top, you stay and for the next 4 to 5 years you get permanent residency and it’s up to you if you want to back or you can retire there and live a good life in Australia,” Kativerata stated.
