29 players were today inducted into the first ever Elite Player Pathway program, launched by the Fiji Rugby Union in Suva today.
The players have been hand-picked from the national men’s and women’s age-grade teams as well as players from the secondary school’s competition.
Program Manager, Viliame Gadolo, says the initiative will open a new door of opportunity for young ruggers to be groomed into professional players.
“We’ve opened the door for you athletes; doesn’t necessarily mean that you will get automatic selection into our national teams. There are people outside this program who will be competing very hard for spots in the national teams. The challenge is for you to work hard; we’re providing you with the programs; your job is to work extra, extra hard.”
The players underwent an orientation to learn about the program, which involves long-term player development on rugby as well as off-field education.
The players today also heard speeches from Vodafone Flying Fijians coach, John McKee, national 7s coaches, Ben Ryan and Iliesa Tanivula as well as former New Zealand 7s rep, Josh Blackie.
