The Fiji Rakavi Football Union (FRFU) has appointed Fusi Feaunati as its new Head of Women’s Rugby, a move aimed at strengthening the women’s game and building a clear pathway from grassroots participation to elite international competition.

The appointment comes at a significant time for women’s rugby in Fiji, with participation continuing to grow across all levels of the sport. From primary school festivals and the Weet-Bix Raluve competition to provincial rugby and national sevens and fifteens programs, the women’s game has experienced strong development in recent years.

The growth is reflected in expanding domestic competitions, with 12 teams competing in the Subrails Marama competition and 16 teams taking part in the Royal Tea Ranadi competition. FRFU is also seeing increased participation through secondary school rugby, girls’ primary school festivals and the continued development of the Fijiana 7s programme.

At the international level, the Vodafone Fijiana XV continues to build on its Rugby World Cup experience. Its recent success at the WXV Challenger tournament in Hong Kong has provided further momentum as Fiji begins preparations towards the 2029 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

FRFU General Manager High Performance Naca Cawanibuka said the appointment reflects the Union’s commitment to taking women’s rugby to the next level.

“Women’s rugby in Fiji has grown tremendously, and we acknowledge the contributions of players, coaches, schools, provincial unions, families and communities across our rugby ecosystem,” Cawanibuka said.

“The appointment of a dedicated Head of Women’s Rugby recognises both the progress that has been achieved and the work still required to establish a sustainable, world-class women’s rugby system.”

The role also aligns with FRFU’s strategic priorities, including strengthening its organisational structure, securing key coaching and high-performance personnel, and improving accountability through clearly defined roles and performance systems.

Feaunati brings extensive experience in women’s rugby development, high-performance coaching, athlete pathways and programme leadership.

His career includes roles as Women’s and Girls Lead with Wellington Rugby Football Union, coaching positions with Wellington Pride and Hurricanes Poua, Black Ferns Wellington Hub Manager with New Zealand Rugby, and development and performance roles with Manawatū Rugby Union.

Speaking on his appointment, Feaunati said he is excited by the opportunity to help shape a connected pathway for female rugby players across Fiji.

“What excites me most about this opportunity is the ability to help shape a connected women’s rugby pathway across Fiji, from community and youth rugby through to elite international performance,” he said.

“Fiji possesses extraordinary talent, passion, athleticism and cultural strength. With aligned systems, athlete support, coach development and performance planning, I believe FRFU can continue to establish itself as a genuine world leader in women’s rugby.”

Feaunati said a key focus will be ensuring women and girls have access to quality coaching, athlete support and professional development opportunities at every stage of their rugby journey.

His appointment is expected to play a key role in strengthening Fiji’s women’s rugby programme as the nation looks to build on recent successes and create a sustainable pathway for future generations of Fijiana players.