Touch rugby team leads drug and HIV education in communities – FBC News
[Photo Credit: Fiji Police Force] The Vodafone Fiji Ratu Sukuna Bowl Police Touch Rugby side is taking its role off the field and stepping up to make a positive impact in the community. In line with this year’s tournament theme, “United for Victory – Stronger Together Against Drugs and HIV”, the team recently participated in an awareness session aimed at equipping officers with the knowledge to reduce the impacts of drugs and HIV in Fijian communities. The session, held in Suva, was conducted by Dr. Sayal Sonika from the Sexual & Reproductive Health Clinic. Officers were briefed on practical ways to engage with the public and promote healthy, informed choices. Article continues after advertisement Armed with this knowledge, the Police officers plan to use community engagement platforms, including sporting events to raise awareness about the risks associated with drug use and unsafe practices. The team has also committed to being more actively involved in spreading awareness, emphasizing that prevention begins with smart choices and supporting one another. The Sukuna Touch Rugby challenge, featuring a friendly showdown between the Police and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, is set for Tuesday, 18th at the Nasova Grounds. The match kicks off at 9am, promising not only an exciting game but also a vital message for the community. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Suva FC ready for OFC Men’s Futsal Championship – FBC News
[Photo Credit: OFC] Fresh off their Extra Futsal IDC victory last month, Suva FC are heading into the OFC Men’s Futsal Championship with strong momentum as the tournament kicked off today at the Vodafone Arena. The hosts have taken part in all three previous editions of the OFC Futsal Men’s Champions League but have never finished higher than fifth. The squad has been preparing for the past two weeks and coach Vivek Nadan believes the group has settled well and is ready for the regional test. Article continues after advertisement After competing in the last two editions of the tournament, Suva is relying on experience to push further this year. The team has reviewed past outings, tightened its structures, and put systems in place aimed at delivering better results and a strong run into finals weekend. The squad includes eight current national reps along with several former internationals, making it one of Suva’s most experienced line-ups. Led by captain Filipe Baravilala, the side is confident of producing a strong showing at home. Nadan is encouraging fans to pack the arena and lift the team with their support. Suva begins its campaign tonight against Southern Legions FC at 7pm and is preparing for a challenging week ahead with matches against teams such as Gulf Komara Futsal Club, Mataks FC, Waikato Rapids, and AS PTT. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Police touch rugby strengthens unity at Raiwaqa church service – FBC News
The Fiji Police Force Touch Rugby team attended a church service in Raiwaqa today, grounding themselves spiritually before the Sukuna Bowl. Adding to the occasion was the presence of the Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s team, whose attendance provided an extra layer of motivation for the police players. Touch rugby is now in its third year as part of the Sukuna Bowl programme, and Police will compete across four divisions: men’s open, women’s open, mixed open, and the masters category. Article continues after advertisement Police currently hold the women’s and mixed titles, while Army leads the men’s division. Assistant head coach of the touch rugby team, Paul Darroch says the men’s team has intensified preparations after letting the title slip in the final stages last year. “They don’t want a repeat of what happened last year. They put their guard down and let it go off in the dying stages. This year, they’ve come back to firing, and well, only time will tell. When the dust settles on the Nasova grounds tomorrow, expect the police team to be throwing their blue colours up in the sky.” This year’s Sukuna Bowl will kick off tomorrow with boxing and cricket being the opening games. Touch Rugby will be played at the Nasova Grounds, Suva on Tuesday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Kolinisau warns squad of high-pressure Dubai format – FBC News
Fiji Airways Fiji 7s coach Osea Kolinisau has reminded his players that the new 2026 SVNS structure will leave no margin for error when they run out in Dubai. The updated format features eight teams per gender, split into two pools of four. Only the top two from each pool will advance directly to the semi-finals, with the quarter-final round removed. Article continues after advertisement Coach Osea Kolinisau. Kolinisau says that the change effectively turns every pool match into a knockout encounter. He has been pushing the message that Fiji cannot afford to drop a game if they want to secure a place in the final four. “We can’t drop a game. We can’t drop a game in this format. Every game we have to play and make sure we come up on top to secure ourselves in the semi-final.” The Fiji 7s side is pooled with Argentina, France and South Africa, three teams Kolinisau expects will arrive well prepared. Argentina enters the season as the series champions, while South Africa and France remain consistent contenders.Kolinisau believes the squad is ready for the challenge and expects a strong response from his players under the heightened pressure of the new system. Dubai 7s will run from 29th of this month. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Flying Fijians urged to play with heart – FBC News
[Photo Credit: Fiji Rugby] The Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, has sent a strong message of support to the Flying Fijians as they prepare to face France. Vosarogo reminded the players that every time they step onto the field, they represent far more than a rugby team; they carry the pride and belief of an entire nation. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by the squad and the challenge of meeting top-tier opponents, but said the team has repeatedly proven that they belong on the world stage. Article continues after advertisement Vosarogo encouraged the players to draw strength from the support of families, children and elders across the country who will be backing them. The Flying Fijians take on France with the aim of producing another inspired performance. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Fijian 7s teams present iTatau ahead of Dubai campaign – FBC News
The Fiji Airways Fijian and Fijiana 7s teams presented their iTatau at Vitogo Village in Lautoka this afternoon, before departing for the Dubai 7s. Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru received the teams on behalf of the Government, thanking Turaga Tui Vitogo Ratu Jone Sovasova and the people of Vitogo for hosting the traditional rite. Saukuru reminded the teams of Fiji’s standing on the world stage, noting that despite the country’s size, its achievements in sport continue to command global respect. Article continues after advertisement He highlighted that Fiji’s success has been built on long-term planning, sacrifice and a winning mindset; qualities he said are essential as the 7s sides prepare to open their season in Dubai. Both the men’s and women’s teams will leave the country tomorrow as they aim to set the tone for the 2024–25 World Sevens Series, carrying with them the hopes and blessings of the nation. Dubai 7s starts 29th of this Month. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Vasconcellos nets winning goal; Rabo gets a break – FBC News
Fiji Men’s football side made a strong start to their MSG Prime Ministers Cup campaign, defeating hosts Papua New Guinea 1–0 thanks to a first half header from Sterling Vasconcellos. The winner came from a perfectly delivered corner by Abdulla Aaiyaz, which Vasconcellos met cleanly to bury into the net. Fielding a side largely made up of young talents, Fiji answered early criticisms with a confident performance. Article continues after advertisement Rewa youngster Asivorisi Rabo was handed a starting spot and impressed on debut with his composure and work rate. Captain Gabriel Matanisiga led a balanced mix of experience and youth, supported by seasoned players Christopher Wasasala, Thomas Dunn, and rising star Penisoni Tirau. While the narrow scoreline kept the match tense, Fiji controlled key moments. The team will now quickly shift focus to their next match against Vanuatu on Monday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Waiqanake Students debut at Get into Rugby PLUS Festival – FBC News
[Photo Credit: Fiji Rugby] Buckhurst Park came alive this morning as more than 15 primary schools took part in the annual Get into Rugby PLUS festival, but for Waiqanake District School, the day carried extra meaning. It was the school’s first-ever appearance at the event, and their students arrived with excitement, nerves, and a sense of pride after weeks of preparation. Teacher and coach Maleli Savai said the festival offered far more than a chance to play rugby, describing it as an important step in shaping the students both on and off the field. Article continues after advertisement “The coaches are here, and the players are making friends. As you can see, after each game, they usually go into the haven. That is where they learn values, especially the kids value. Respect, integrity, solidarity, passion and respect. Those are the core values of rugby.” For many of the young players, the festival was their first experience competing outside of school. The presence of parents on the sidelines added to the excitement, creating a supportive environment that portrayed the community spirit behind the event. He believes the program will make a lasting impact, helping students grow not only as young rugby players but as confident, responsible citizens. For Waiqanake District, the hope now is to build on this momentum and remain involved in future editions of the festival. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Tuwai to lead Mike Friday select side – FBC News
Jerry Tuwai (right) Jerry Tuwai will return to Lawaqa Park next year to captain the McDonald’s Mike Friday Select 7s team at the 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s. The Olympic champion’s comeback follows a strong 2025 campaign where the side finished as runners-up, and his leadership is expected to again drive the team’s push for the i-Wau Trophy. Organisers say Tuwai’s presence continues to elevate the standard of the tournament, with his influence regarded as a major factor behind the team’s competitive edge. Article continues after advertisement Founding chairman Jay Whyte spoke about the impact Tuwai brings to the event, noting that his return strengthens the prestige and intensity of the Coral Coast 7s. Whyte considers Tuwai a central figure in lifting both the squad and the overall quality of the tournament. Tuwai remains one of Fiji’s most admired sevens figures, and his return is seen as a timely boost for a side determined to improve on last year’s finish. The Mike Friday Select squad is again expected to feature a mix of international names and emerging players, maintaining the tournament’s tradition of showcasing world-class talent. The 2026 McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s will take place from January 15–17, 2026, at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Sukuna Bowl holds emotional weight for officers – FBC News
The Sukuna Bowl remains a defining event for both the Fiji Police Force and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, a tradition that Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu believes has become part of the identity of every officer. The event brings together months of preparation across sports and operations, and serves as a moment for officers to reconnect, refresh relationships and strengthen the long-standing ties between the two forces. Despite the fierce rivalry on the field, the event is known for its mix of humour, friendly teasing and the kind of light-hearted moments that remind officers of their shared responsibilities. Article continues after advertisement Fiji Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu. Yet beneath the banter lies an intensity that only the Sukuna Bowl can produce. Tudravu says while wins are celebrated proudly, losses can be difficult to accept, even when the smiles remain outwardly composed. “We normally congratulate each other for the win, but inside you know that there’s hurt when you lose. So this is some of the memorable things that we normally do, you cannot swallow if you lose the game in that year, inside it’s very hurtful and these are some of the things that we normally feel when we are in the aftermath of the Sukuna.” The Police captain adds that the leadership role entrusted to him brings its own pressure, but he remains determined to deliver another victory for his team. Boxing will begin on Monday, with all fighters assembling at the Nakasi Police Station at 6am for weigh-ins before the event starts at 4pm. Meanwhile, the men’s soccer match next Thursday, as well as the men’s and women’s rugby clashes on Friday, will be broadcast LIVE on FBC Sports. Overseas fans can also stream the matches on viti.plus for $99. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.