International rugby referee and Rooster Chicken Grassroots Fiji 7s Ambassador, Rasta Rasivhenge, believes that the Grassroots tournament in Fiji is more than just a competition, it is a platform for developing the future rugby stars of the country.
In a recent interview with this newspaper, Rasivhenge expressed his gratitude for being involved in the Fiji Sports Council Grassroots tournament, sponsored by Rooster Chicken.
He highlighted the significance of the tournament in nurturing young talent and grooming them for success in the sport.
Serving as an ambassador for the event, Rasivhenge is honored to play a role in supporting the growth and development of rugby in Fiji.
“It’s a great honor to be part of the Fiji Sports Council Grassroots tournament, thanks to Rooster Chicken as the sponsor,” said Rasivhenge.
“The greatest thing about it (tournament), it’s all about development, getting the future rugby stars of Fiji.
“I think it’s a great initiative it that they have joined with Fiji Rugby Union (FRU), in order to retain the developing players, and I’m privileged to be an ambassador for the tournament.”
Drawing on his experience working with the Elite Player Development System (EPD) in his country South Africa, he explained how the systematic approach to player development has proven successful in grooming future national team players from a young age.
“The Grassroots rugby is a great initiative, in South Africa I have worked with Rassie Erasmus (South African rugby union coach and former player), for the past 12 to 15 years, we have an Elite Player Development System (EPD), and that starts in the age of 16.
“So the players are tracked from the age of 16, all the way till they progress to the national team, how EPD works we have a national under-16 tournament, we got the U18, then we got the U20 EPD system, so the EPD system is a great way to neutralise, coming through the system and reaching the national team.”
He commended Fiji for implementing a similar system and expressed confidence in the potential for young Fijian players to excel on the international stage.
Meanwhile, the Grassroot 7s tournament will conclude today.
