Suva Rugby Union Completes 2026 Local Derby Competition Ahead of Schedule

SPORTS

7/22/20261 min read

The Suva Rugby Union has successfully completed its 2026 Local Derby Competition ahead of the start of the Skipper Cup, with Chairman Jone Maritino Nemani describing the achievement as a reflection of improved planning, coordination and discipline across the Union.

In his Chairman's Note, Nemani thanked affiliated clubs, officials, referees and players for ensuring the competition was completed smoothly and efficiently.

He congratulated Police Blue for winning the prestigious Escott Shield after defeating Covenant Brothers in the final, while CK RKS Old Boys claimed the D. Gokal Koroturaga Cup. He also acknowledged the contribution of women's rugby clubs throughout the competition.

Nemani said completing the competition before the Skipper Cup was no accident but the result of strong collaboration between the Union's new leadership and its affiliated clubs.

He said the early finish now allows the Union to focus its full attention on preparing and supporting the Suva men's and women's provincial teams for their respective national competitions.

The Chairman also reminded players that the Suva Rugby Union, established in 1913, is Fiji's oldest provincial rugby union, with the Escott Shield remaining the country's longest-running rugby trophy.

He said generations of Suva players have progressed to represent the Flying Fijians, while today's clubs continue producing talent for the Fijian Drua and Fijiana Drua.

Nemani also issued a warning to players intending to transfer to other provinces, urging them to obtain legitimate releases through the proper process before moving. He called on receiving provincial unions to carry out appropriate checks to ensure all transfer requirements have been met.

He said compliance and due diligence were fundamental to good rugby governance and would help prevent administrative issues that could affect players and teams.

The Chairman thanked sponsors FMF, D. Gokal, CK and other supporters for backing the competition, along with players, volunteers, officials and families whose commitment made the season possible.

He wished both the Suva men's team, U20 and the women's side every success as the 2026 Skipper Cup and Subrails Marama Championship seasons get underway.

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