The Fiji Rugby Union has established its first High-Performance Unit in the Northern Division, marking a significant milestone in the organisation’s commitment to grassroots development and elite athlete pathways.
FRU says the new Northern Fitness Centre, located at Adi Laisa Park, James Madhavan Street in Labasa, will serve as a dedicated training hub for rugby players across the North.
They say this move solidifies the FRU’s commitment to providing the necessary infrastructure for its rugby pathways and creating a space where future national representatives can be equipped with the tools to develop and meet the criteria expected of high performance athletes at local and international competitions.
FRU says the Labasa facility adds to the FRU’s existing high performance infrastructure in Suva, Sigatoka, and Nadi, ensuring that talented athletes from all four divisions have access to quality training environments without having to relocate from their home communities.
FRU Chief Executive Officer, Koli Sewabu, welcomed the agreement as a landmark moment for rugby development in the North.
Sewabu says this is a historic day for Fiji Rugby and for our people of the Northern Division.
He says for too long, athletes in the north have had to travel or make do without the specialised facilities needed to prepare them for high level competition.
Sewabu says the Northern Fitness Centre at Adi Laisa Park changes this as it ensures that talent is no longer limited by geography.
The CEO says whether you are from Suva, Sigatoka, Nadi, or now Labasa, you will have access to the same high performance standards.
Sewabu also acknowledged the Tui Macuata, Ratu William Katonivere and the Labasa Town Council for their partnership in bringing the project to fruition.
He says they made an official visit to the Tui Macuata earlier this year to share this vision and initiatives and than him and the Labasa Town Council for their collaboration and support.
The CEO says this gym will not only serve our rugby pathways but will also contribute to the broader sporting community in the North.
The centre will be officially launched in the coming weeks and is expected to become operational in the soon after, with further announcements regarding opening hours, access for local unions, and training programs to follow.
FRU adds they are committed to continue setting up satellite High Performance facilities as such to all our other Provincial unions over the next few years.
