Malolo Rugby adopts new pre-season approach

Malolo Rugby Union, the reigning Skipper Cup champions, is embarking on an unconventional pre-season training regimen. Instead of traditional drills, players are collaborating with the Fiji Pine Trust on a significant reforestation project in the Sigatoka Highlands.

This partnership, facilitated by a government-funded extension scheme, allows players to earn an income while contributing to the planting of approximately 52,000 young pine trees across 47.8 hectares. The initiative aims to alleviate financial pressures on the team during the demanding pre-season period and foster stronger team unity.

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This project started from conversations around the grog basin, where the idea was first discussed and later shared with the Chair of the Fiji Pine Trust. We approached them to see if there was a way the team could be supported during the pre-season, and we are very grateful that Mr Semi Degei approved this partnership.

Assistant coach Joseva Domolailai highlighted the origin of the partnership, stemming from informal discussions that led to a formal proposal to the Fiji Pine Trust. "This project started from conversations around the grog basin, where the idea was first discussed and later shared with the Chair of the Fiji Pine Trust," Domolailai stated. "We approached them to see if there was a way the team could be supported during the pre-season, and we are very grateful that Mr Semi Degei approved this partnership."

Fiji Pine Trust Chairman Semi Degei confirmed the project's delivery through the government scheme, emphasizing the mutual benefits. The players' involvement in planting trees provides them with financial support while advancing a crucial environmental initiative. This collaboration comes as Malolo enters its eighth week of pre-season, having begun preparations in February, as they set their sights on defending their title when the Skipper Cup season commences on August 1.

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One of the ways this partnership is benefiting the team is through a government-funded extension scheme. The players are helping with the planting of around 52,000 young pine plants, and this is how they are receiving support through the project.