THE HONOURABLE MINISTER FOR YOUTH AND SPORTS
Lt. Col. LAISENIA TUITUBOU
Saturday 7 October 2017
• Your Excellency the President of Fiji
• The Honorable Prime Minister of Fiji
• The Honorable Attorney General
• Government Ministers, representatives
• Members of the diplomatic corps
• Dignitaries
• Board members of Fiji National Rugby League
• Invited Guests
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Bula vinaka, Namaste, Salaam Aleikum and a very good evening to you all!
As the Minister for Youth and Sports I am honoured to be given the opportunity to announce the name of our Fiji Bati gladiators that will be representing Fiji in the upcoming Rugby League World Cup 2017.
You are not just going as players, but as true ambassadors of Fiji. I have the utmost trust that you will showcase to the rest of the world that Fiji is the way the world should be both on and off the field.
Please market the Fijian brand and our many values, traditions and customs associated with our diverse land.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we have come a long way. Our presence is increasingly being felt at numerous sporting events. This reflects the commitment made by Government to develop all sports in the country to propel respective sports organizations to deliver the required resources needed to enhance player performances.
Fiji National Rugby League has also come a long way. Our players continue to make their mark on both international and local platforms from the 1960s. The Fiji Bati has produced a number of outstanding players in the past and we are yet again ready to introduce the next generation of champions to the world during next week’s showcase event and then at the Rugby League World Cup.
Before I announce the names of the players who made the final squad, I would like to pay tribute to those players who have not make the final cut. Your sacrifices, dedication and aspirations will not go to waste. You all have been part of something amazing and the achievements of the Bati will also reflect your hard work and perseverance. Keep your focus and be ready for the call up when it comes.
To the team, I wish you all the best on behalf of the Fijian people. You carry with you our hopes and expectations. I wish you all a successful outing and that you become role models to the many talented children in Fiji.
Ladies and Gentlemen, I now have much pleasure in announcing the Fiji Bati team to the Rugby League World Cup 2017.
Announcement of names to follow:
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Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you the Fiji Bati team for the Rugby World Cup.
Vinaka. Dhanyavaad. Shokran. Thank You.