Ratu Filise Rugby Club
Local rugby club, Ratu Filise, has proven themselves worthy to be counted among Fiji’s top rugby clubs after winning the country’s highest paying tournament last year, Raka 7’s. This November, the Namatakula, Nadroga based club is determined to retain their title.
Club official Mr. Vukailagi said winning the major cash prize on offer last year empowered them to achieve a lot of their objectives which they had been working towards over the years. “After distributing their tithe equally among the three churches in the village, Methodist, AOG, and Catholic, we invested funds back into our players and club,” he added.
All 12 players and 2 coaching staff had cash injections into their bank accounts and were challenged by their management committee to purchase items of use in their respective homes as gratitude for their families support in their rugby journey.
In line with their dream to enhance the club’s self-sustainability, funds were used to purchase more sports gear which is now benefiting the club in their preparations this year. “We have invested in merchandise such as club tee shirts, vests and sulus designed specifically for our loyal fans. This has become a revenue stream for us,” confirmed Mr Vukailagi .
Club officials and players have witnessed first-hand the benefits of winning at this tournament and it is a motivating factor in their preparations leading up this year’s clash.
The club is anticipating stiff competition from other club members but are confident that with the right preparation, positive results should follow.
