Mark Evans, the outgoing CEO of Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, has bid a heartfelt farewell to the organization, its players, and the ardent rugby fans of Fiji, reflecting on the significant journey the team has embarked upon and the broader evolution of rugby in the nation. Under Evans’ stewardship, the Drua has emerged as a professional platform for Fijian talent, successfully competing against some of the world’s top teams.
Evans emphasized that the franchise has demonstrated that Fijian rugby can flourish on a global scale, allowing players to gain invaluable experience without having to leave their homeland. He recognizes that developing a world-class team is a long-term endeavor. “The message, not just for the players, but for the whole organization and for the country, is… we’re nowhere near where we could get to, or I think we will get to,” he articulated. He pointed out the need for perseverance and time, affirming the ultimate goal of achieving victory in the challenging competitions ahead.
The Drua has quickly become a cornerstone of the national rugby framework, offering Fijian athletes the opportunity to compete against elite players while enhancing their skills and team cohesiveness, which in turn benefits the national teams. However, Evans made it clear that success extends beyond the Drua itself; it hinges on the broader rugby infrastructure, including initiatives in schools, training facilities, and player welfare systems.
He commended the progress of Fiji’s national teams, noting the men’s 15s team has consistently maintained a placement among the top 10 in the world rankings. Meanwhile, the women’s 15s team has made remarkable strides, jumping from 23rd to 13th in just one year. Evans expressed optimism about Fiji’s potential to establish itself among the elite of rugby, provided that ongoing investments are made in youth development and key resources.
“I’m pretty optimistic about it. I think we’ve come a long, long way. I think the Drua have helped a lot with that and will continue to help a lot with that. And I don’t think we’ve stopped improving yet,” he said. His message resonates with hope and determination; Fijian rugby is climbing, but the journey to the summit will require patience, careful strategy, and collective effort across the sport.
Evans concluded his tenure with the Drua before receiving a warm farewell from management, staff, and players during a gathering in Nadi. Taking over the helm is former Wallabies flanker Jeff Miller. Looking ahead, the Drua is set to kick off their next season with a match against Moana Pasifika on February 14 at Churchill Park in Lautoka at 3:35 PM, promising another exciting chapter in Fijian rugby’s ascent.
Leave a comment