Bula FC focused on development and exposure this season – FBC News
Bula FC head coach Stephane Auvary is urging fans and supporters to be patient as the team prepares to kick off its OFC Pro League campaign next month. As Fiji’s first-ever professional football club competing in the region’s first professional league, Auvary says expectations must be managed, noting that immediate results should not be expected. He emphasized that building a competitive team will take time, especially with several more established and experienced clubs taking part in the tournament. Article continues after advertisement “It’s a working progress, they’ll have to be patient, because we cannot just create a team from scratch like this and be expected to shinning two or three months after. But we are going to do our best, the players and the staff, and we’re going to try represent Fiji as best as we can” Auvary explained that the club is focused on development and gaining valuable exposure during its inaugural season, rather than chasing short-term success. He has called on supporters to continue backing the team through both positive and challenging moments. He added that the club’s long-term vision is to be fully competitive within the next three years. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Torosi back to fire up Mike Friday Select 7s – FBC News
[Source: Coral Coast Fiji 7s/Facebook] Ilikimi Torosi is back in the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s jersey and his return immediately adds belief and edge to the team’s 2026 campaign at the Coral Coast 7s. Tournament organisers have confirmed Torosi’s inclusion, rewarding the dynamic playmaker for a standout showing at this years Coral Coast Fiji 7s where the Select 7s powered their way to the final. It was a campaign defined by grit and composure, highlighted by Torosi’s ice cold match winning try in extra time against Samoa, a moment that remains one of the tournament’s most memorable. Article continues after advertisement That ability to deliver under pressure is exactly why head coach Mike Friday was quick to welcome him back into the squad. “Ilikimi is a big game player. What he did in 2025 speaks for itself. Stepping up in extra time against Samoa and taking us to the final showed his mentality, courage and quality. He earned his place back in this squad.” More than just a finisher, Torosi brought physicality, control and an unrelenting competitive edge throughout last year’s campaign. Those qualities align perfectly with the Select 7s identity built around fearless, attacking rugby. His return provides continuity and proven match winning experience to a squad once again drawn from elite performers from Fiji and around the world. For Torosi, the motivation remains clear. “Last year was special and I’m grateful for the trust shown in me again. I’m hungry to go even further in 2026 with the team.” As the 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s approaches, Torosi’s return signals intent. Familiar heroes will combine with emerging talent as the Select 7s look to build on their strong 2025 campaign and push one step closer to lifting the title. The Coral Coast 7s runs from 15th to 17th of next month, and fans can watch the LIVE action on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Volmer applauds Bulai’s efforts to support local athletes – FBC News
Long jump veteran Eugene Volmer has praised the efforts of a fellow athlete who is raising funds to support preparations for national duties by securing much-needed sporting equipment. Volmer says Pacific Games gold medalist Deborah Bulai’s initiative to raise funds for athletes of Bullet Academy United speaks volumes about her character and deep love for the sport. Bulai, who won gold for Fiji at the 2023 Pacific Games, is also a coach at Bullet Academy United. Article continues after advertisement He noted that it is uncommon for athletes to take the initiative to organize such fundraisers and commended Bulai for going above and beyond to support fellow athletes. “I think it’s a great thing, what’s she’s doing, going out of her way to trying to fundraise. It’s great to see an athlete doing what they can to help other athletes.” Volmer is also calling on stakeholders and former national representatives to lend their support to Bulai’s cause. Those wishing to contribute can make donations through Bulai’s GoFundMe page titled “Throwing for the Future: Support Fiji Athletes.” Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Motuliki thrilled to have competed in the world’s best youth 7s – FBC News
[Photo Supplied] New Zealand Under 18 7s rep Levonah Motuliki has described the Global Youth Sevens Tournament as the number one youth tournament in the world and says she feels blessed to have shared that stage alongside her Fijian mates, including Lynda Vatuloka-Rabeni in the girls team and Rupeni Raviyawa and James Tuituba in the boys team, as both sides claimed the titles. For Motuliki, competing at this level was more than just a victory it was an opportunity to grow alongside some of the world’s best young talent. “I’m really grateful to be playing alongside my Fijian teammates like Lynda, Rupeni and James. They push me every day, and to win both titles together is something I’ll always be thankful for.” Article continues after advertisement Motuliki, who has maternal links to Komo Kabara in Lau, started playing rugby at Auckland Marist Rugby Club when she was just five years old, a beginning she credits to her mother. “My mum forced me to play, but I quickly fell in love with the game and never looked back.” As she grew older, she drew inspiration from former Black Ferns captain Fiao’o Fa’amausili, whose leadership and determination motivated her to aim higher. [Motuliki and Seru Rabeni’s daughter, Lynda Rabeni-Vatuloka] The call-up to the New Zealand u18 side was a dream come true. “I was very excited and shocked. This has been my goal for a long time, so finally making the team meant everything.” Motuliki says her faith and strong family support from her mum, siblings, and extended family across New Zealand, Fiji and beyond keep her motivated, especially as she bounces back from injuries and continues to chase her dreams on the world stage. With championship-winning experience at the world’s biggest youth 7s tournament, the youngster is ready to take the next steps in her rugby journey, proud of her roots and the team that helped her rise. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Bula FC sets realistic goals ahead of OFC Pro League – FBC News
With the inaugural OFC Pro League season set to kick off next month, Bula FC is approaching the competition with realistic expectations, choosing patience over rushing toward long-term ambitions. As Fiji’s first-ever professional football club, head coach Stephane Auvary says the primary objective this season is to gain exposure at the highest level. He acknowledges that the team may not be among the strongest contenders in the competition but emphasizes the importance of learning and development. Article continues after advertisement Auvary believes the experience will be invaluable for his players, as they are expected to absorb as much knowledge as possible throughout the season and use it as a foundation for future success. “This first season is going to be a discovery, a learning phase for the players. We will not be pretentious as to say that we are going to play our games and hope to make it to finals and be the best team in the league. We know there are teams who have existed way longer than us, very structured. We are in the initial phase, and I hope the players will learn a lot during the next five months.” He has also cautioned his squad against getting ahead of themselves, noting that the OFC Pro League will be a completely different challenge compared to what they are accustomed to. The inaugural OFC Pro League season is scheduled to begin on January 17. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
South Africa edge Zimbabwe to seal Afcon knockout spot – FBC News
[Photo: getty images] South Africa have secured a place in the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after a dramatic 3-2 win over Zimbabwe in Marrakech. A late penalty from Oswin Appollis sealed the victory for Bafana Bafana, who finished second in Group B behind Egypt, while Zimbabwe were eliminated in fourth place. South Africa took an early lead through Tshepang Moremi after seven minutes before Zimbabwe responded with a stunning solo goal from Tawanda Maswanhise. Article continues after advertisement Lyle Foster restored South Africa’s advantage early in the second half, but Zimbabwe struck back when a deflected clearance off defender Aubrey Modiba found the net. Appollis then calmly converted from the spot following a VAR decision for handball to send the 1996 champions through. South Africa will face the Group F runners-up in Rabat on Sunday, while Zimbabwe’s wait to progress beyond the group stage at Afcon continues. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Bulai helps raise funds for athletes – FBC News
Pacific Games gold medallist Deborah Bulai. [Photo: FILE] In a bid to help athletes like herself pursue their dreams, Pacific Games gold medallist Deborah Bulai is trying to raise funds to help purchase sporting equipment. Before returning to the United States a few weeks ago, Bulai had been working together and coaching some of the country’s upcoming talent in the sport of hammerthrow. She won gold for Fiji at the 2023 Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands in the sport, and is now focusing on helping develop the next generation of athletes. Article continues after advertisement “The biggest barriers are limited resources and funding. Track and field is considered a poor sport, and many national-level athletes are required to self-fund. This reality forces many athletes to give up, not because they lack talent, but because adulthood brings responsibilities such as full-time work, bills, and very little flexibility to train consistently.” Bulai is now conducting a Gofundme page to raise funds for hammerthrowers in Fiji. She believes that if given the proper support and equipment, Fiji has the potential to compete against the best in the world. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Krishna hits the ground running at Bula FC – FBC News
Roy Krishna. [Source: Bula FC/Facebook] Bula FC returned to the training paddock with renewed energy and all eyes were firmly on Roy Krishna as the club’s marquee signing joined his new teammates over the weekend. After a short break, the squad resumed pre-season preparations with a high-intensity session that set the tone for the months ahead. Krishna, fresh from featuring in the Kerala Super League semi-finals just last week, wasted no time getting involved, immediately lifting the tempo with his sharp movement, professionalism and leadership. Article continues after advertisement The arrival of Fiji’s most accomplished football export signals a bold new chapter for Bula FC. Beyond the goals and experience he brings, Krishna’s presence is already setting standards on the training field, offering younger players a first-hand look at what it takes to compete at the highest level. With pre-season now underway and momentum building, excitement is growing around the club as it shapes up for what promises to be a defining season. Bula FC will meet Vanuatu United FC in their first match on the 17th of next month in Auckland, New Zealand. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fiji sets sights on Olympic debut in Badminton – FBC News
[File Photo] Once a strong performer at the Pacific Games, badminton in Fiji has faded, with serious play now mostly confined to Yat Sen School in Suva. But the sport is making a comeback under Fiji’s newly elected Badminton Committee. Since taking office in August, the Committee has cleared accounts with FASANOC, the Fiji National Sports Commission, and the Badminton World Federation. Article continues after advertisement They’ve restarted social events in Suva and organized the country’s largest Secondary Schools Tournament in nearly three decades. The ultimate goal is ambitious, sending Fijian badminton players to the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane. To get there, the plan is to establish eight clubs nationwide, bringing in more than 250 players. The association will offer a year-round calendar of competitions and clear pathways to tournaments in Fiji, across the Pacific, Oceania, and internationally. By 2032, Fiji hopes to consistently beat regional rivals like New Caledonia and Tahiti and challenge New Zealand at the Oceania Finals. Officials also aim to develop semi-professional players abroad, producing two or three Fijians who have played badminton all their lives to compete at the highest level. Discussions are ongoing with government agencies and ten other national indoor sports associations to build a new indoor arena in Nadi, a move expected to give Fijian badminton a major boost. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Begg chases childhood dream – FBC News
While he is excited to pursue his dream of playing professional football, Nabil Begg admits that answering Bula FC’s call-up was not an easy decision. Joining the club means Begg will place his studies on hold, as the upcoming season is expected to be a demanding one. With Bula FC’s busy schedule, he will spend much of the year either travelling or in camp with the team. Article continues after advertisement However, with the guidance and encouragement of his parents and loved ones, Begg has chosen to follow his football ambitions, doing so with the full support of his family. “Just need to be on top of my weaknesses. That with know what coach wants from us, the message he is trying to get across, or the structure he wants us to play.” A product of Ba FC, Begg has emerged as one of the country’s most exciting young talents. He rose through the ranks before making his senior debut in 2021, playing a key role for the Men in Black in domestic competitions. In early 2024, Begg earned an overseas opportunity with Auckland City FC in New Zealand, before returning home to represent his hometown club during the 2025 season. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.