Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata has praised the high level of competition witnessed in the opening round of the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League (FSSRL) competition.
The skill, execution, and rugby IQ displayed by students from both the Southern and Western Zones highlight the success of the development programme implemented by the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL).
Since taking on the role of head coach at the FNRL, Kativerata has consistently emphasised the importance of nurturing local talent and establishing a clear pathway to the coveted Fiji Bati jersey.
Reflecting on what he observed over the weekend at the FSSRL, the former Fiji Bati representative believes the sport is headed in a very promising direction.
“The young kids in Fiji are starting to understand what rugby league all is about,” he said.
“I can see the changes from 2023 when I first arrived a lot of the development work has been done you know and the good things is now is that the schoolteachers know their role as a teacher and when they are involved in coaching rugby league.”
Kativerata was particularly impressed by the high level of detail and tactical awareness demonstrated by teams in the lower grades.
“This year is much better. Even at the under-15 level, they complete their sets, they know when to kick, when to attack, and when to hold on to the ball, all with a clear understanding of the zones they want to target,” he explained.
For many years, Fiji has relied heavily on Fijian talents developed through the Australian system, who then progress to the NRL before representing Fiji Bati.
However, with the current development programmes and the rapid growth of the FSSRL competition, potential Fiji Bati players are emerging from schools beyond the traditional strongholds.
Institutions such as Naitasiri High School, Ra High School, Ba Pro Institute, and others are stepping up, unveiling numerous talents eager to earn higher honours.
This highlights both the reach and success of the FNRL’s development initiatives.
If this progress continues, expect more local talents to join the Kaiviti Silktails and the NRL, further strengthening the Fiji Bati team.
