Farebrother Sullivan Trophy champion Nadi received a bonus payment of $18,000 for finishing the 2020 season with the ‘holy grail’ of Fiji rugby.
Jack’s of Fiji Nadi wrested the prized cup from Namosi after defeating the holders 22-21 in a nail-biting encounter at the ANZ Stadium in Suva on October 24 and then successfully defended it by downing Tailevu 28-10 at Prince Charles Park a week later.
As part of its celebrations, the Nadi Rugby Union held a march through the Jetset Town yesterday led by the Republic of Fiji Military Forces band.
The wives and children of the players and team management were transported in the Big Bula bus during the procession.
The rainy weather did not dampen the spirits of the players as they marched from the Sigatoka end of the town through to the Nair Dais opposite the Nadi market where they were greeted by the Nadi Rugby Union (NRU) executives and sponsors.
Jack’s of Fiji chief executive officer Bhavin Khatri in his address stated that it was a very special occasion for the Nadi community as they celebrated the achievement of being the 2020 Farebrother Sullivan Trophy champions.
Khatri said Nadi had been greatly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic especially the business in the tourism sector.
“This win is significant and a very special one for the Nadi community as it has brought everyone together,” he said.
“Jack’s of Fiji is proud to be associated with the NRU and we look forward to working more closely in 2021 to make it a bigger year.
“Today’s (yesterday’s) bonus of $18,000 ($10,000 given by Jack’s of Fiji and $8000 by No1 Currency) is well deserved by the players and management as it recognises their hard work and sacrifice to achieve victory.
“With the COVID-19 impact this year, substantial sponsorship was cut back so the team had a tougher road. To run a season with limited funds is very challenging.
“We call on more business houses to come on board to support Nadi rugby for the 2021 season. Work has started and we need to build a stronger plan collectively to make 2021 even more successful.”
NRU’s other sponsors for the 2020 season included McDonald’s Fiji, Aqua Pacific, Nadi Town Council, Al-Hamd Smart Living, Cevu Nadi Supporters, Radisson Blu and Wyndham Resorts.
