A total of 230 Vodafone Cup and FNRL (Fiji National Rugby League) women premiership matches will be played over a period of 16-weeks across cities, towns and villages.

This was confirmed by FNRL CEO Don Natabe at the launching of the Vodafone Cup and FNRL women’s Premiership at Albert Park, Suva yesterday.

“We are also proud to announce the official resumption of our junior rugby league competitions from the 8-year-olds to elite premiership,” Natabe said.”

“30 men’s teams and eight women’s senior teams will contest our national premiership(s).”

Natabe said the Vanua State of Origin will be held on June 29 with an inclusion of a female youth category.

“We believe that sports is an excellent tool for holistic character development in our youths and young children,” he said.

“Rugby league is a sport that allows opportunities for professional careers and engages recreational activity within the community.”

Natabe said the success of their domestic competition has seen over 100 Fijian players migrate to Australia to play rugby league in cities and the outback regions.

“This is a promising statistic that demonstrates the power of rugby league,” he said.

“We strive to double that number the next 18 months.”

Natabe said women’s participation in rugby league has gradually increased.

“The success we have seen with the 2023 FNRLW competition is an indication of the emerging talents in the women’s game with most of our players below the age of 24,” he said.

“I like to thank our partners Vodafone Fiji Limited, the National Rugby League of Australia who have contributed tremendously to the women’s game.”

Natabe also acknowledged the Australian Government through the partnership of PacificAusSports and TeamUP programmes which fund the women’s expansion.

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