16 youth teams ready for Coral Coast 7s showdown – FBC News
[Source: Coral Coast Fiji 7s/Facebook] The draws for the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s Youth Division have been released, and next month’s youth category promises some of the most competitive rugby action along the Coral Coast. Featuring 16 top teams from Fiji, Australia and Japan, the division has become a showcase for emerging talent, giving young players the chance to test themselves against elite domestic and international opposition. Known for its speed, physicality and fearless style, the Youth Division continues to produce future provincial and national representatives. Article continues after advertisement Next month’s competition brings together established youth programmes, schoolboy standouts and rising grassroots teams, ensuring intensity and high-quality rugby in every match. The official pool draw has placed the 16 teams into four competitive pools, setting up thrilling contests from the opening whistle. Pool YA features Southland Broncos, Sydney Bula, Taveuni Grassroots Fiji and JVJQ Brothers. Pool YB includes Dominion Brothers, Sunnybank Dragons, Aqua Pro Savuiqali and Tubarua. In Pool YC, U18 Japan SDS, Village Boys U20s, TEMC Birdland Brothers and Shogun Fiji Highlanders will battle it out. Finally, Pool YD brings together Serevi Select Youth 7s, Bilo Bar Aflame Brothers, DAG QVSOB and St Theresa Nukubalavu Savusavu. BRED Bank CEO Pierre Tastet highlighted the importance of the division in developing young athletes. “The Youth Division is about creating opportunity, building confidence, and giving young players the chance to test themselves on a major stage. Rugby shapes character and leadership, and we are proud to support a competition that invests in the future of our youth and our communities.” Tournament founding chairman Jay Whyte adds that the division remains a key pillar in nurturing the next generation of players across the Pacific. “With strong international representation and some of Fiji’s most exciting young talent on display, the BRED Bank Youth Division will once again deliver fast, fearless and entertaining rugby. This is where tomorrow’s stars are forged.” Running alongside the Men’s and Women’s competitions, the Youth Division promises to add depth, excitement and a clear development pathway on one of Fiji’s biggest rugby stages. 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.
Teen Archie Gray fires Spurs past Palace – FBC News
Tottenham Hotspurs’ teenager Archie Gray celebrates with his teammate after scoring the winning goal. [Photo: SUPPLIED] Tottenham ended a rocky year on a high as 19-year-old Archie Gray scored his first senior goal to secure a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Gray’s close-range strike came three minutes before half-time after Spurs capitalised on a corner, with Randal Kolo Muani and Richarlison helping set up the opener from Pedro Porro’s delivery. Spurs threatened more goals, but could not extend their lead. Article continues after advertisement Palace dominated parts of the first half, with Jean-Philippe Mateta causing problems, but their best chances went wide. Maxence Lacroix and Justin Devenny also missed as the Eagles fell to a third straight league defeat. The win lifts Spurs to 11th, just a point behind ninth-placed Palace. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Tuvalu excited for return to Nadi Junior Rugby Festival – FBC News
[Source: Nadi Junior Rugby Association/Facebook] Tuvalu Under 16 and Under 18 coach Alama Elisaia says his teams are already looking ahead to a return to the Nadi Junior Rugby Club Festival after gaining valuable experience at the 2025 edition earlier this month at Prince Charles Park. Elisaia says the tournament was a major learning platform for his young players, with many experiencing international competition for the first time on quality grounds against strong club sides. The Tuvalu coach says exposure was the main goal, allowing the boys to learn, observe and absorb as much as possible from other nations and clubs during the festival. Article continues after advertisement Elisaia adds that Tuvalu’s rugby leadership sees this as just the beginning, with plans already in place to return next year. He says the aim is to bring back a bigger contingent in 2026, including the formation of a women’s team and the introduction of younger age groups such as the under-10s. Elisaia says the experience in Nadi has reinforced Tuvalu’s commitment to junior rugby development, with the festival now a key part of their future pathway. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fijians shine as Castres beat Lyon – FBC News
Vuate Karawalevu. [Source: castresolympique/Instagram] Castres put on a dominant display at home, defeating Lyon 36–22 in their French Top 14 clash, with Fijian flair on full show. Vilimoni Botitu starred for Castres, scoring two tries, while teammate Vuate Karawalevu also crossed the line to help secure the win. Lyon fought back through Jiuta Wainiqolo who scored two brilliant tries, but it wasn’t enough to match Castres’ strong all-around performance. Article continues after advertisement The win keeps Castres in touch with the Top 14 leaders, with Toulouse top of the table, followed by Pau and Stade Français. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Call for girls’ rugby showcases in Fiji – FBC News
[Photo Supplied] New Zealand Fijian girls head coach Jone Fihaki is calling for tournaments like Global Youth 7s to be hosted in Fiji, saying they are crucial in exposing young female rugby talent that often goes unseen. Fihaki says many talented girls in Fiji remain hidden due to limited competition opportunities, with most only playing in the background and rarely receiving the exposure needed to progress to higher levels. He believes platforms like Global 7s allow players to showcase their skills in front of coaches and selectors, opening pathways to future opportunities, including national representation. Article continues after advertisement Fihaki adds that while boys’ rugby has traditionally received most of the attention, the rapid growth of the women’s game makes it important for Fiji to invest in similar tournaments for girls. He says hosting events of this nature locally would give more young players a chance to play, develop, and be seen, helping unlock the depth of talent that exists across the country. Fihaki hopes Fiji Rugby will consider creating a local version of such competitions to support the future of women’s rugby both in Fiji and among the Fijian diaspora. Meanwhile, the Global Youth 7s wrapped up last week in Auckland where New Zealand girls and boys under 18 scooped the winning titles. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Roy Krishna returns home with Bula FC signing – FBC News
[File Photo] Fiji football icon Roy Krishna has completed a landmark return home, officially signing with Bula FC in a move that brings one of the country’s most decorated players back to the domestic stage. The former A-League and Indian Super League star joins Bula FC as the club prepares for its next chapter, adding vast international experience, leadership and proven goal-scoring pedigree to the squad. Krishna’s football journey began in Labasa, where he developed his game at All Saints High School before rising through the ranks with Labasa FC and earning national honours. Article continues after advertisement He went on to collect more than 60 caps for the Fiji national team and established himself as one of Oceania’s most lethal forwards. His career took him across the region and beyond, starring for Waitakere United, Auckland City and Wellington Phoenix in New Zealand, before enjoying a highly successful stint in India with ATK, Mohun Bagan, Bengaluru FC and Odisha FC in the Indian Super League. The defining highlight came in 2019, when Krishna claimed the prestigious Johnny Warren Medal as the A-League’s best player, finishing the season as the competition’s top scorer and cementing his reputation as one of the finest strikers produced by the region. Despite continued interest from overseas clubs, Krishna has chosen to return home, motivated by a desire to give back to the game that shaped him. “It’s been an amazing journey playing abroad, but there’s something special about coming back home. This is where my roots are, and I’m excited to give back.” Beyond his impact on the pitch, Krishna is expected to play a key mentoring role at Bula FC, guiding a young and ambitious squad. “This team is full of hungry players with huge potential. I’m here not just to play, but to help guide them and show them what it takes to succeed at the highest level.” Krishna’s return also aligns with Bula FC’s broader vision as the club takes its place in Oceania’s inaugural professional football league, with the veteran forward eager to help build something lasting. “It’s not just about me. I want these young players to go even further than I did, and I want to be part of helping them achieve that.” Family has also played a major role in his decision, with Krishna relishing the chance to spend more time at home with his wife and daughter after years abroad. “Being able to share my days with them here is the icing on the cake.” Krishna will wear the number 21 jersey for Bula FC, with supporters eagerly anticipating the influence his experience, leadership and finishing ability will bring to the club’s historic journey. 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.
Waqaira reflects on dream of representing Fiji – FBC News
Netball Fiji Under 21 rep Eseta Waqaira is living a dream few athletes reach, representing her country at the 2025 Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar that was held in September this year. The journey to this stage has been filled with sacrifices, hard work, and determination. For Waqaira, it is not just about netball, but about family, faith and pride. Article continues after advertisement “For me, putting God first is the most important thing. I will never forget to be grateful for everything He has done. Family is also a huge part of this journey. I miss home and all the sacrifices they have made to support me.” Since leaving Fiji for New Zealand, she has navigated challenges on and off the court. “We all struggle, but my family guided me every step. They remind me to never stop praying, always give my best on the court, and never forget where I come from.” Her journey is featured in the Netball Australia documentary For Court & Country, which follows five Pacific athletes on their path to the world stage. For Waqaira, wearing the Fijian jersey is more than sport, it is a chance to honour her family, her faith, and the sacrifices that have shaped her journey. Meanwhile, The Baby Pearls, concluded their campaign at the Netball World Youth Cup in Gibraltar, securing 11th place overall after edging out Malaysia 56–48 in a hard-fought final classification match. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Coral Coast 7s welcomes fans with free entry – FBC News
Coral Coast 7s crowd. [File Photo] Rugby fans are in for a treat at next months McDonalds Fiji Coral Coast 7s as organisers have announced free entry again for all spectators. Thanks to the generous support of sponsors, fans from across Fiji and around the world can enjoy the action without paying a cent. Organisers are encouraging everyone to spread the word and bring friends along, promising a festival of fast-paced Sevens rugby, excitement and community spirit. Article continues after advertisement Next year’s event promises to be bigger and better, giving fans a chance to witness top-level rugby while enjoying a fun and festive atmosphere while also getting the chance to meet some rugby stars from around the world. The Coral Coast 7s will start on the 15th to the 17th of next month at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Waqa takes charge of FRU operations – FBC News
Talemo Waqa. [Source: Fiji Rugby/Facebook] Fiji Rugby has turned to an experienced hand with Talemo Waqa appointed Acting Chief Operations Officer, effective immediately, as the union looks to strengthen its operational base and long term direction. The Fiji Rakavi Football Union confirmed the appointment, describing Waqa as a highly respected sports administrator with more than three decades of experience spanning sports management, education and high performance consultancy. His return to a senior leadership role is seen as a timely boost for the organisation during a key phase of growth. Article continues after advertisement Waqa is no stranger to Fiji Rugby, having previously served as manager of the High Performance Unit and played a major role in rugby development both locally and across the Pacific. He spent 13 years as Regional Training Manager with Oceania Rugby, where he helped build high performance systems and advanced rugby development throughout the region. His background in elite performance structures, governance and organisational development positions him well to oversee the day to day operations of Fiji Rugby and support the continued growth of the game at home and abroad. Fiji Rugby chief executive officer Koli Sewabu welcomed the appointment, saying Waqa brings a rare depth of experience, strong institutional knowledge and proven leadership credibility. Sewabu says his understanding of high performance sport, governance and the unique fabric of Fiji Rugby makes him well suited to guide the organisation with clarity, stability and purpose. Beyond Fiji Rugby, Waqa is the founder and managing director of Kiliati Enterprise, a sports management and high performance consultancy firm. He also continues his work with Oceania Rugby under World Rugby, delivering leadership, management and coaching programmes across the Pacific. His consultancy experience includes work with the Oceania National Olympic Committees and the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee, contributing widely to regional sports development. Within Fiji Rugby, Waqa has previously held senior roles in rugby development, referees and high performance, while also serving the education sector for more than 20 years as a teacher and administrator. As Acting COO, Waqa will oversee all operational functions of Fiji Rugby, with a focus on efficiency, innovation and sustainable growth. His leadership is expected to strengthen alignment with the union’s strategic objectives, including player welfare, community engagement and Fiji’s global standing in both XVs and Sevens rugby. His appointment signals Fiji Rugby’s continued commitment to strong governance, high performance standards and the long term development of the game as it builds toward its next chapter on the international stage. Taina Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Tewa among top contenders in regional rankings – FBC News
[File Photo] Fijian sprinter Waisake Tewa has made a strong mark on the regional athletics scene, ranking eighth with a total of 1016 points. He has excelled in both the 100m and 200m events, showing promise as one of Fiji’s rising sprint talents. Just ahead of him, Adolf Kauba of Papua New Guinea shares the same points tally but edges slightly in overall performance across the 400m and 800m, including the 600m hurdles. Emmanuel Anais of Papua New Guinea is in sixth place with 1048 points, followed by Daniel Baul of Papua New Guinea in fifth with 1057 points, who specializes in the 400m and 400m hurdles. Article continues after advertisement Tovetuna Tuna of Papua New Guinea claims fourth with 1119 points in the 100m and 200m sprints, while Pais Wisil of Papua New Guinea sits third with 1123 points in the 100m and 60m events. Raihau Maiau of French Polynesia is the runner-up with 1149 points in the long jump, and topping the leaderboard is Alex Rose of Samoa with 1254 points in the discus throw. Waisake Tewa’s ranking highlights Fiji’s growing presence in regional sprint events and sets him up as a key athlete to watch in upcoming competitions. Meanwhile, in the Pacific women’s category, Heleina Young is ranked 5th while Sera Nasilivata is 7th. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.