“This partnership is about building pathways-not just for rugby, but for life, building opportunities,” said McElrath.
McDonald’s Fiji managing director Marc McElrath (second from left) with Kaiviti Silktails Club chairman and founder Petero Civoniceva with
players outside McDonald’s Fiji head office in Nadi on June 27, 2025. Photo: Waisea Nasokia
McDonald’s Fiji and the Kaiviti Silktails are layingthe groundwork for a stronger, healthier, and more opportunity-filled future for Fijian youths.
This was after McDonald’s Fiji announced their newest official partnership with the Kaiviti Silktails Rugby League Football Club, coming on board as a Platinum Sleeve Sponsor for the 2025 season.
This was revealed during the official contract signing and jersey presentation at the McDonald’s Fiji head office in Nadi, marking the beginning of a long-term relationship between two passionate, community- driven organisations.
As part of the $75,000 partnership package, McDonald’s Fiji will contribute $50,000 in direct financial support and $25,000 in-kind support, which will go toward community outreach, post-match meals, branded gear, and school-based coaching clinics.
McDonald’s Fiji managing director Marc McElrath said this exciting collaboration represents more than just a sponsorship- it is a shared vision to empower Fijian youths through sport, education, and life skills.
He added that this partnership would play a pivotal role in supporting youth development programmes aimed at nurturing the next generation of rugby league talents in Fiji.
“This partnership is about building pathways-not just for rugby, but for life, building opportunities,” said McElrath.
“We’re committed to supporting the holistic growth of young Fijians by offering these career opportunities that can open pathways not only within our restaurants but also through the community.
“These partnerships offer skillbuilding workshops, discipline, and strong life-building initiatives like the Silktails’ ‘no work, no study, no play’ policy.”
Club chairman and founder Petero Civoniceva said the club would be entering into a three-year sponsorship partnership with McDonald’s, marking a first in Fijian rugby league history.
“This will assist in developing junior rugby league across Fiji and furthering the growth of the sport.
“2025 marks our fifth year in operation, and today’s announcement and signing are a major milestone in the Kaiviti Silktails story,” he said.
“This cements McDonald’s as a major supporter of Fijian sport, enabling Fijian athletes to realise their potential in their chosen sport.”
The legendary NRL forward added that this new partnership between the club would enable the Silktails brand to introduce rugby league to a new generation of Silktails youths- boys and girlswho are an important part of the Silktails Elite Development Pathway Programme.
McDonald’s Fiji will assist in delivering grassroots coaching clinics across schools using McDonald’s- branded equipment and vehicles, encouraging participation, discipline, and teamwork at an early age.
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj