Peni Tubakibau has officially joined the board of the Kaiviti Silktails, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to the growth of rugby league in Fiji. With over 20 years in the sport, Tubakibau has played a pivotal role in various capacities, beginning as a player and advancing to coaching with teams like the Junior Bati and Fiji Bati. He is perhaps best known for leading the Bulikula Team during its inaugural test match and guiding them to a remarkable gold medal victory at the 2019 Pacific Games in Samoa.
Having served as the Head of Pathway Development for the Silktails for four years, Tubakibau’s journey with the organization has been deeply connected to his vision for fostering local rugby talent. His mission is clear: he aims to ensure that young players not only aspire to represent Fiji but also have viable career opportunities in rugby league. “Every player should have the opportunity to earn a living through their passion for rugby,” Tubakibau asserts. “It’s about creating a sustainable pathway for our youth, one that empowers them both on and off the field.”
In his new role on the board, Tubakibau envisions the Silktails transforming into a sustainable and highly successful club. He aims to achieve this by implementing strategic initiatives and forming collaborations that reflect the aspirations of the community. “My goal is to see Silktails grow not just as a team, but as a community hub where talent can be nurtured and celebrated,” he explains. A key focus will be on enhancing pathways for young athletes, enabling their progression from secondary school through the Silktails system to professional contracts with larger clubs.
Addressing potential challenges is also a central theme in Tubakibau’s agenda. He acknowledges the importance of maintaining a robust recruitment process for emerging talent. “One of the biggest challenges we face is ensuring a steady stream of young talent,” he admits. “By building strong relationships with secondary schools, we can create clearer pathways into the Silktails system.” Engaging with government and stakeholders to secure support for development programs is equally essential.
Community engagement will be a cornerstone of Tubakibau’s approach. He is committed to establishing open channels for dialogue with the Silktail community, allowing for thoughts and feedback to inform board decisions. “We need to listen to our community,” Tubakibau emphasizes. “Their voices are crucial in shaping the direction of our club. This is not just about the board; it’s about all of us working together.”
Looking ahead, Tubakibau recognizes the industry’s trends, particularly the increasing focus on player welfare and the integration of technology in training. “Player welfare is essential, and we must prioritize programs that support our athletes holistically,” he notes. “Additionally, we can leverage technology in our training strategies to enhance player performance.” By proactively addressing these trends, he believes Silktail can maintain its competitive edge and foster growth for both the club and its players.
Partnerships will also play a crucial role in Tubakibau’s strategy. He envisions collaborations with secondary schools, local sports organizations, and government entities that can provide structured pathways for young athletes to develop their skills while maintaining their education. “Working together with schools and local clubs ensures we broaden our talent pool and create robust grassroots systems,” he explains. Engaging with stakeholders will also be key to securing funding and resources necessary for sustainable development programs.
The importance of diversity and inclusion within Silktail is another priority for Tubakibau. He advocates for mentorship initiatives and cultural awareness training to foster an environment where all members feel valued and empowered. “A diverse and inclusive environment is vital for success,” he states. “By embracing our community’s rich diversity, we can ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
Personal goals for Tubakibau during his tenure include ensuring that at least five players are contracted by professional clubs each year, showcasing the effectiveness of Silktail’s development initiatives. “If we can achieve this, it will reflect the hard work we’ve put into developing our players,” he shares. He intends to cultivate an atmosphere that prioritizes player welfare, allowing athletes to excel both on and off the field.
As he embarks on this transformative journey, Tubakibau commits to fostering transparency within the board and maintaining clear communication with the Silktail community. “Trust and transparency are vital,” he asserts. “The community should know that we are dedicated to upholding the values that drive Silktail’s mission.” With his leadership, the future of the Silktails looks bright, promising new opportunities and continued success for Fiji’s rugby league talent.
