Natabe rates women’s league

Fiji National Rugby League acting chief executive officer Don Natabe says fans and rugby league enthusiasts can expect fireworks when the FNRL Women’s Premiership kicks start at Churchill Park in Lautoka today.

Natabe announced the fixtures for the tournament, with FNRL W Premiership champions, Police Sharks and Lami Steelers clash being the highlight of the day.

“I am pleased to announce the fixtures of the tournament, and we are calling out to rugby league lovers to come out in numbers and witness quality display of rugby in Lautoka tomorrow (today),” he said.

Natabe thanked he National Rugby League (NRL) of Australia for their tremendous contribution, in ensuring the smooth running of the tournament.

“There will be a total of eight teams competing in a round robin series of seven rounds, before entering the final series of the tournament.

“The FNRL W Premiership will also feature the Ron Massey Cup match between the Canberra Bulldogs and the Kaiviti Silktails.”

Three new clubs from the western division will be joining the FNRL W Premiership, in what will be the second year of the tournament.

“We welcome our newcomers to the tournament, Burenitu Cowgirls, Nadi Eels, and the West Coast Storms Football Club.

“We are proud to continue the legacy of being exclusive in sports in many ways, especially in the empowerment of women here in Fiji.”

Natabe also announced the dates for the grand finals of both the men’s and women’s premiership tournaments, which will be held on September 9, at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.

“At this, I would like to acknowledge the commitments of all the clubs in the competition, and all our partners for allowing us to commence with the tournament this season.

“And most importantly, we would like to highlight the growth of women’s participation in rugby league, in all levels.”