A major $1million sponsorship deal over the next four years has been secured by the Fiji Netball Transitional Committee, giving a timely boost to the development of the sport around the country.
This was revealed by Fiji Netball transitional committee chair Vasiti Vugakoto during the launch of the Lautoka Netball Association’s competition season on Saturday.
Vugakoto said the committee was committed to rebuilding netball in Fiji and ensuring players and associations receive the support and resources they need.
“The new transition committee will make sure that we will provide all necessary support and resources to make sure you get what you need,” Vugakoto said.
“We have met one of our major sponsors and our major sponsor will sponsor us $1million in four years and that grant will help you.”
She said the sponsorship would play a key role in reviving the sport, especially at a time when Fiji’s international ranking had declined.
“Our rank in netball has gone down, women are going out to other sports.”
Vugakoto also used the occasion to inspire young players by sharing her own journey into the sport as she emphasised how making her national debut at 16 years old meant “if I can do it, you can do it”.
Meanwhile, at the local meet, she said Lautoka was fortunate to have many former national representatives involved in developing players at grassroots level.
Vugakoto reflected on her upbringing in Raiwaqa, Suva, saying her parents taught her and her siblings the value of hard work and discipline.
“My parents made me and my siblings work hard and train hard,” she said.
She reminded players that education and sports should go together and encouraged them to stay focused on their goals.
“You need to sacrifice, know your friends and dedicate yourselves,” she said.
“There’s a lot of distractions out there; drugs and smartphones. Say no to drugs, you are our future leaders, we want to see you sitting in offices.”
