THE Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Mataivalu Rugby League Awards Night was held on 19th December, 2019 at the Vodafone Arena, Laucala Bay Road in Suva.
The Chief Guest for the auspicious occasions was the Commander RFMF Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto. Also present at the awards night was Territorial Force Brigade Commander Brigadier-General Apakuki Kurusiga and Senior officers of the RFMF.
Speaking during the awards night Rear Admiral Naupoto stated that there were a few plans to improve Rugby League in the country which includes the exposure of local players overseas. This comes after he took up his new appointment with the FNRL.
“As you all know that I am the new chairman of the Fiji National Rugby League and have just been selected lately. We will try to implement some new ways of improving Rugby League competition in the country and introduce opportunities for players by playing here in Fiji and overseas” stated Rear Admiral Naupoto.
RADM Naupoto also thanked the Army Bears Rugby League players for representing the Army in Fiji and abroad and said that everyone must be thankful of what they have achieved and at the same time work on the weakness that the team had acquired during the year.
In addition to this, RADM Naupoto also thanked the RFMF services woman for the first ever match played with the ADF services woman this year and mentioned that was an achievement for the RFMF.
Several awards was also given during the event which included:
The Player of the Year Award: Joseva Bukalase,
The Rockie of the Year Award: Anisito Komai
The Most Improved player of the year Award: Temesia Jilivecevece
The Best Forward (Premier) Award: Waisea Bati
The Best Forward (Reserve) Award: Kemueli Mocelutu
The Best Backline (Premier) Award was given to Mosese Rova
The Best Backline (Reserve) Award: Epironi Naisunimata
The Representative Player of the Year Award: Ropate Tobe.
