Hughes Opens Up on BOG Absence, Says Fiji Footballers Need to Be Valued

Nasinu forward Bruce Hughes has opened up about his absence from the 2026 Extra Battle of the Giants, saying commitments outside football and the financial realities faced by local players influenced his decision.

Hughes, who has been among Nasinu’s leading scorers in the Extra Premier League this season, addressed questions surrounding his absence from the BOG in a post on his Facebook profile.

He said he had already experienced success in the tournament and was now focused on other commitments and dreams he wanted to pursue.Hughes said his experience had also changed the way he viewed football in Fiji, arguing that for many local players, the sport could not realistically be treated as a full-time career because of the financial rewards available.

“Football is not a career in Fiji due to what we are paid in my understanding,” Hughes said.He said the rising cost of living made the situation increasingly difficult for players, particularly when, in his view, player payments had not kept pace.

“Everything is upgrading and the cost of living is high but the players in Fiji, our pay remains the same,” he wrote.His comments highlight a wider reality of domestic football in Fiji, where many players have to balance football with employment, education, family responsibilities and other commitments.

While players compete at the highest level of domestic football and are expected to train regularly, travel and represent their districts, the local game does not necessarily provide every player with the financial security of a conventional full-time professional career.

That can leave players facing difficult decisions between continuing to pursue football and prioritising employment or other opportunities that offer greater long-term financial stability.

For Hughes, the issue ultimately comes down to how players are treated and valued.“Once you see and understand that you’re not valued somewhere, then better try something new,” he said.

He concluded his message with a direct call for greater recognition of footballers.“Players need to be valued and well taken care of.”Hughes’ comments come as Nasinu continue their Extra BOG campaign, while also raising a broader discussion about player welfare, remuneration and what is required to make domestic football a more sustainable pathway for Fijian players.