Members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) gathered at the RFMF Chapel today for a Thanksgiving Church Service, offering gratitude to God for protection, guidance, and sustaining strength throughout the Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl 2025 tournament held last week.

During the service, the Commander of the RFMF, Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai, expressed his gratitude to all team managers and players for their dedication and effort throughout this year’s Ratu Sukuna Bowl tournament.

Maj-Gen Kalouniwai emphasized the significance of the inner strength and dedication demonstrated during the competition, highlighting that the true value lies in representing one’s institution, families, and comrades, regardless of the outcome of the game.

“What is important is the heart within you—the heart you displayed on the field as you represented this institution, your families, and our comrades serving both locally and abroad. Even though we did not win, we must always remember why we played and who we played for,” Maj-Gen Kalouniwai said.

Maj-Gen Kalouniwai emphasised the importance of appreciating the journey in sports over just the final outcome. He commended the team’s resilience and determination in rugby, acknowledging that only one team can win each match. He also expressed gratitude for the gift of life, which allows for competition and safe returns.

“Iam acknowledging the effort and the quality of the game played, we must learn to appreciate the journey. Not every team will win, but what we have achieved goes beyond the Ratu Sukuna Bowl. I want to commend the main team for their resilience and determination on the rugby field; in every match, one team emerges victorious while the other does not. Above all, we must thank God for the gift of life, which enables us to compete, return safely, and remain steadfast in spirit,” Maj-Gen Kalouniwai added.

Commander RFMF concluded by thanking all members of the RFMF for their collective hard work and unity throughout the year. He encouraged everyone to continue striving in the year ahead. He expressed his appreciation for the achievements of 2025 and urged members to remain grateful and committed as they look forward to the future.