WHEN Ba Rugby takes the field, Ba Football Association president Praneel Dayal is often among the familiar faces making their way through the tunnel at the 4R Stadium, Govind Park in Ba.
And when Ba FC takes the field, Ba Rugby Union secretary Gabby Kautoga is never far away.
It is a relationship built beyond sporting rivalries, trophies and competition one that reflects the unity and pride of a town that stands together regardless of the sporting code.
In Ba, rugby and football are more than two different games. They are part of one sporting family.
Dayal has consistently shown his support for Ba Rugby, while Kautoga has become a regular presence at Ba FC’s league matches and major tournaments.
Known affectionately as Pastor Gabby, Kautoga brings another dimension to that relationship. Beyond his responsibilities as Ba Rugby secretary, he is a servant of God who takes time to encourage and motivate football players spiritually, reminding them that success is built not only on physical preparation but also on faith, discipline and togetherness.
His presence has become particularly valuable as Ba FC prepares for the upcoming Pacific Cup, with Kautoga visiting the team’s training sessions at 4R Stadium to provide spiritual encouragement ahead of the challenge.
Standing alongside the two sporting leaders is the Momo Na Tui Ba, Taukei Nawaiviluri Ratu Sowani Cava, whose unwavering support for both teams further strengthens the bond.
It is a powerful picture of community leadership, where race, religion and sporting differences take a back seat to a shared love for Ba.
Such a level of cross-sport support is rarely seen elsewhere, making Ba’s sporting relationship something worth celebrating.
Dayal acknowledged the contribution of Ba Rugby and Kautoga, saying the relationship continued to strengthen the bond between the two organisations.
“Ba Rugby and Ba Football , #WeAreBa.
“We have our facilities back to train on. Thanks to Ba Town Council. Pastor Gabby from Ba Rugby union has been standing with us throughout the season. Today he joined us to further strengthen the unity between football and rugby in Ba,” Dayal said.
The partnership comes at a special time for Ba FC, which enjoyed a remarkable 2026 season by winning all four major domestic titles the Extra Premier League, Fiji FACT, Battle of the Giants and FMF Inter-District Championship.
While the silverware has brought pride and recognition to the town, the relationship between its two sporting codes represents an achievement that cannot be measured by trophies.
It is a reminder that sporting success is not only about what happens during the 80 or 90 minutes on the field, but also about the people who stand together beyond the final whistle.
In Ba, when rugby plays, football supports. When football plays, rugby stands behind it.
Different games, one identity.
That is the spirit of Ba.
Second row; Ba FC president Praneel Dayal(far right) with Momo Na Tui Ba, Taukei Nawaiviluri Ratu Sowani Cava(centre) during the Skipper Cup match between Ba Rugby versus Naitasiri. Picture: Anasilini Natoga
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Ba Rugby Union secretary Gabby Kautoga (far left), Ba Football Association president Praneel Dayal and Na Momo na Tui Ba and Taukei Nawaiviluri Ratu Sowani Cava shake hands with the Ba and Tailevu Naitasiri footballers and match officials during the Extra Premier League this year. Picture: SUPPLIED
