The ‘Brains & Brawn’ Initiative

The Kaiviti Silktails ‘Brains and Brawn’ Initiative is an innovative program designed to support remote schools by enhancing their sports programs while encouraging academic commitment. A key aspect of this initiative is the “No School, No Gym” policy, which will be implemented by teachers to ensure that students prioritise their education before accessing the gym facilities. By linking physical development to school attendance, the program aims to drive both academic and athletic success among students in these communities.

In addition to supporting school sports, the gym will serve as another hub for the Kaiviti Silktails Elite Development Pathway. This will allow young athletes from remote island groups to begin honing their skills and physical abilities, opening up opportunities for further development in rugby and other sports. The gym’s dual purpose of athletic and academic motivation embodies the program’s holistic approach to youth development.

Since the Kaiviti Silktails’ inception in 2020, the club has established 10 gyms and training facilities across educational and community centers in Fiji, with one also set up in Sydney. Through the ‘Brains and Brawn’ Initiative, the Silktails are building a strong foundation for both athletic excellence and academic achievement across Fiji’s schools and communities.

Silktails Latest ‘Brains & Brawn’ Initiative – Yasawa High

From Yasawa High School on Naviti Island, to the mainland of Fiji and now living in Bondi being contracted to the Sydney Roosters, there is no more inspirational story than that of Kaiviti Silktail #43 Meli Nasau.

Meli Nasau is a former student of Yasawa High, alongside Caretaker Coach Timoci Duve and current player Akuila Qoro. The team, led by Silktails Executive Director Stephen Driscoll as part of the ‘Brains and Brawn’ Initiative, completed a gym equipment donation and installation by Silktails staff and players with students of the school.

For 22 year old Nasau, this was his first trip back to the Yasawa’s in 5 years and to go back to lead such a special initiative is something he is so grateful for. “I’d like to thank the Kaiviti Silktails and its Community Youth Program for bringing me home and putting this gym donation together for my old school.” said Nasau.

After the gym installation, the following day, we returned to the school to deliver a Field and Gym workshop utilising the new field equipment and gym facilities donated to the school. Over 40 students participated, with current Silktails Caretaker Coach and former Student Timoci Duve and Meli Nasau leading the skills drills – and Executive Director Stephen Driscoll and Rusi Ratukana leading the S&C workshop on the field and in the school’s new gym.

About The KSCYP

The Kaiviti Silktails Community Youth Program is a testament to the clubs commitment to both education and community involvement. By empowering our young players, the program ensures they can train while actively contributing to the local community.