Fiji set to have second-tier NRL team

Former Australia test prop Petero Civoniceva has spearheaded a movement to give Fiji its own professional Rugby League team, which would play in what is essentially the second tier down under – the New South Wales Cup.

Alongside Greg Brown, Fiji-born Civoniceva has secured the rights to enter a team into the prestigious competition from 2016.

He said: “Our aim is to provide an affordable and exciting atmosphere for all fans and professional opportunities for our local playing squad, who will train full time in our training base in Suva.

“Our vision is to be the most popular club in the New South Wales Cup to supporters in Fiji and in Sydney. Financial viability will be assured through building strong partnerships through our Government and Corporate partnerships. The franchise will provide pathway and development programs from juniors through to seniors and will showcase the tremendous Fijian playing talent. This will also provide great exposure for Fijian companies throughout the Australia-Pacific region and promote Fijian Sports Tourism”.

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