Plans to use rugby to eradicate drug problems in Kadavu

After being perceived as Fiji’s drug capital for years, works are underway to use rugby as a means to keep the youths of Kadavu away from illegal activities.

This is after the Kadavu Provincial Council together with the Fiji Rugby Union and other government stakeholders mapped out a development plan during the Kadavu Rugby Union Annual General Meeting.

Kadavu has produced a number of rugby stars such as All Blacks wing Sevu Reece, former Flying Fijians captain Sale Sorovaki, Olympic gold medallist Leone Nakarawa, Sireli Naqelevuki, Albert Tuisue, Setareki Tawake and Tuimasi Tubananitu.

Fiji Rugby Development Unit Manager Koli Sewabu says one of the issues that was brought up during the meeting was drugs and how they can use rugby to drive youths away from it.

Sewabu says rugby can influence a change if the approach is right.

The first stage of this long-term development plan began last month where FRU introduced rugby training and education courses for coaches who attended the 3 weeks program on the island.