The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) interim Trustees will be revealing substantial changes in Fiji Rugby’s financial management during the November 9 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

This was highlighted by FRU interim Trustees chairman Peter Mazey while responding to recent online remarks from the former Flying Fijians captain Waisea Nayacalevu and senior players alleging a cash crisis and calling for accountability.

“I can assure everyone that the Trustees were appointed to address these issues only 14 months ago,” Mazey said.

“The players had called for changes at Rugby House, personnel with experience in the sporting environment to run FRU.

“Had they forgotten the 12 senior managers who were all ex-national reps or the 105 full-time paid staff who all have rugby at heart and are committed to doing the best for rugby in Fiji and to the welfare of all our players.

“They are all deeply affected by the comments of a few players and the social media postings they brought on.”

He reiterated that FRU remains committed to supporting our players and ensuring that we uphold the integrity of the organisation.

“In saying this, the Trustees met before these accusations came to light, to navigate the best way forward for the players well-being,” Mazey said.

“It was decided in a Trustees meeting in August that it would be put forward to the incoming FRU board to secure the services of a Well-Being Manager and a Mental Skills Manager.”

The Well-Being Manager, Mazey said, will work across the men’s and women’s programme with the aim of implementing a comprehensive athlete development programme that addresses individual needs and prepares them for life after rugby.

“The Mental Skills Manager will work in tandem with the Well-being Manager, coaches, staff and players.

“This role is geared towards creating appropriate high-perfomance environments where expected standards and behaviors are clear and enforced and where honest, respectful performance conversations can take place.”

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj