![](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/nz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Captain-Bitila-Tawake.jpg\"\/)
<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n
[file photo]<\/p>\n
Pacific Rugby Players has taken a landmark step in its leadership structure, announcing the appointment of Bitila Tawake as the organization\u2019s first female player representative from Fiji. \u00a0<\/p>\n
The move reflects PRP\u2019s growing commitment to elevating women\u2019s voices within Pacific rugby and few embody that mission more powerfully than Tawake. \u00a0<\/p>\n
A two-time Super W champion with the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua team, a Rugby World Cup representative and a proud product of Fiji\u2019s booming women\u2019s rugby system, Tawake\u2019s rise has been built on grit, leadership and a relentless push for fairness in the sport. \u00a0<\/p>\n
More than a decorated athlete, she has become a respected advocate for player welfare\u2014unafraid to speak openly about pay, conditions and the systemic challenges faced by Pacific Island players. <\/p>\n
\u201cI want to create an equal playing field for women and men. I want to use sport as a vehicle to change mindsets about women\u2019s rugby and player welfare.\u201d <\/p>\n
Her appointment signals a pivotal moment for PRP. \u00a0<\/p>\n
With women\u2019s rugby in the Pacific experiencing historic growth, Tawake brings firsthand insight into the realities faced by players\u2014both the triumphs and the struggles. \u00a0<\/p>\n
She has been one of the voices calling for improved contracts, better support structures, and greater respect for the women who wear their nation\u2019s colours with pride. <\/p>\n
Now seated at the PRP board table, she is determined to ensure that future generations won\u2019t have to fight the same battles. <\/p>\n
Tawake also shared a heartfelt message to Pacific players across the region. <\/p>\n
\u201cRugby is a beautiful sport. It will take you to places you\u2019ve never imagined. It comes with sacrifices and challenges, but don\u2019t give up. Falling is part of the journey\u2014what matters is that you rise again.\u201d <\/p>\n
With leaders like Bitila Tawake stepping into key roles, Pacific rugby continues to show that its strength lies not only in its talent, but also in its courage to evolve. <\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Swire Shipping Fijian Drua captain Frank Lomani is also part of the board. \u00a0<\/p>\n