Nacani Cawanibuka, the head of athletic performance for Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, is set to take the reins at the High Performance Unit at the Fiji Rugby Union. This transition follows the recent resignation of BJ Mather, who held the position briefly after being appointed in October 2023.
Cawanibuka, who previously contributed significantly to the Drua’s inaugural season in 2022, will leave a lasting legacy, particularly noted for his dual impact on the players’ physical and spiritual well-being. His departure was acknowledged by Drua head coach Glen Jackson during an awards presentation, where he emphasized how much Cawanibuka’s commitment has meant for the team. Jackson remarked on the importance of understanding the cultural and spiritual dimensions of rugby, which Cawanibuka brought to the forefront.
Having graduated from Otago Polytech with a Master of Professional Practice in Sports Science and High Performance, Cawanibuka’s credentials are robust. He has been a pivotal figure since joining the Drua in September 2021, helping the team build its physical foundations. His prior experience as a strength and conditioning coach for Fiji’s Olympic gold medal-winning rugby sevens teams in 2016 and 2020 underscores his vast expertise and success in the sport.
Cawanibuka expressed his gratitude to the team and management during his tenure. He highlighted the importance of professionalism and national pride, stating, “We learn from the past, we live in the present, but prepare for the future as well.” His departure signals not only a personal milestone but also opens opportunities for other professionals within the Fiji Rugby Union setup.
The changes in leadership within the team are poised to usher in a new chapter for both Cawanibuka and the Drua, reflecting a hopeful trajectory for Fiji’s rugby future. While it may be bittersweet to say goodbye to a cornerstone of the team, this transition fosters potential growth and innovation as the club continues to strive for excellence on and off the pitch.
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