The Fiji Government acknowledges the contribution of sports in our economy in terms of remittance and the tourism mileage gained by participating in international tournaments and will continue to
support teams through the Fiji National Sports Commission.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Youth and Sports Hon.Jese Saukuru while officiating at the closing of the 47th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s at the HFC Stadium, Suva on Saturday (18.03.23).
Hon. Saukuru said the 47th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s is an invaluable opportunity for the future stars and leaders of rugby sevens to experience high level and meaningful competition while also experiencing and sharing the value of sport.
“It is tournaments such as Fiji Bitter Marist 7s that lay the foundation for our future 7s team,” he said.
He also reiterated the importance of looking after the player’s welfare, saying that a safe environment must be created for the athletes who are competing and training for their sport, as well as ensuring their safety and well-being away from the games.
“This year, your Government will ensure that Jerry Tuwai’s family are able to enter their dream house. Through your support, the Ministry of Youth and Sports together with the Fiji Sports Council will jointly
fundraise for one of our own Gold Medal Olympian - Napolioni Bolaca’s knee surgery,” he said.
He also thanked the organizers of the tournament, saying that such tournaments encourage many disadvantaged youth to make a career for
themselves, something that the Ministry of Youth and Sports has continuously been trying to address.
The Minister of Youth and Sports said the organization of such sporting activities empowers the youth to take the lead role in the area of sports particularly 7s, providing them a second chance to have a bright future.
The 47th Fiji Bitter Marist 7s was held from 16th-18th May, 2023.