The highly anticipated 2025 Vodafone Deans Trophy and Weet-Bix Raluve secondary schools rugby competitions officially get underway this Saturday. The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has confirmed the full sanctioning of both competitions yesterday following extensive consultations with the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union (FSSRU) and the Ministry of Education. FRU chief executive officer Koli Sewabu confirmed that the green light has been given after collaborative discussions and the formation of a new interim committee to oversee key governance issues. “We are grateful to announce that we have come to an agreement and will sanction the Vodafone Deans and Weet-Bix Raluve competitions for 2025” Sewabu said. “This is a big win for our young athletes and all those who have worked tirelessly behind the scene”. He said the committee’s immediate focus is to resolve long-standing concerns around the use of public resources such as school facilities and teaching staff, while ensuring that governance structures align with national standards. Sewabu indicated that the terms of reference have already been established, including potential constitutional reforms and reviews of the competition format from 2025 through 2026. Despite earlier setbacks, schools from around the country have pressed ahead with their preparations. Many zones report record participation, with friendly matches reaching unprecedented levels this year. Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union vice-president development, Biu Colati praised the dedication of school administrators and coaches who continued to prepare in good faith. “This year’s preparation has reached new heights. “We’re seeing a record number of schools involved and the enthusiasm is clear.” Sewabu assured the public that no issues are expected regarding grounds or logistics. Most zone competitions use school-owned fields, and each zone has taken responsibility for local arrangements. Funding distribution to support zone-level operations is currently underway. “We’ve never faced ground shortages in the past, and we don’t expect any now. All zones are reporting readiness,” Sewabu added. FRU and its sponsors have worked to secure support for development programmes, with discussions ongoing around future investment in rugby at the school level. The sanctioning of this year’s competitions is more than just a green light for matches—it’s part of a broader effort to strengthen player pathways. The FRU is actively working with academies, provincial unions, and overseas clubs to create more structured transitions from school rugby to professional opportunities. “This agreement helps set the foundation for a stronger high-performance pathway,” Sewabu said. “We’re strengthening ties with our global partners and building systems, so our students are better supported in their transitions—whether to domestic competitions or international academies.” Sewabu acknowledged that previous uncertainties arose from internal restructuring but emphasised that every union has the right to reorganise in pursuit of better governance and accountability. “This is about ensuring that everyone who participates in school rugby is safe, supported, and part of a system that works. We’re proud to move forward together.” Feedback: mere.ledua@fijisun.com.fj