Negotiations are currently in progress for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua to conduct all their pre-season matches locally. Drua head coach Glen Jackson mentioned in an interview that they are aiming to adopt a different approach this season.
Jackson stated, “No away (pre-season) games, good to be home and enjoy the environment.” He also revealed that discussions are likely to take place later in January regarding a match against the RFC Los Angeles rugby team.
Notably, former Flying Fijian flanker and Rio Olympic Games gold medallist Semi Kunatani is part of that club competing in the American Major League Rugby.
Additionally, the Drua management is planning an internal trial match for their players. Jackson expressed the hope that the Drua will face Provincial Union teams that participate in the Skipper Cup competition. This includes teams such as Nadroga, Naitasiri, Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Suva, Tailevu, Macuata, Namosi, and Malolo.
“It’ll be good to play the Skipper Cup teams in Nadi. Also, spread the love around the country and get some good games here,” he added.
The Drua is also considering participation in local sevens rugby tournaments, having already confirmed their entry into the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament early next year. This event will allow Drua players, who primarily focus on 15s rugby, to compete against some of the best sevens players in the country.
Meanwhile, the Drua’s pre-season camp in Kadavu is beginning to take form. Jackson and Head of Athletic Performance Naca Cawanibuka have been visiting potential camping locations. They performed a traditional i-sevusevu ceremony in Tavuki Village on Tuesday before continuing to Vunisea.
“The focus (for Kadavu pre-season camp) is bringing the team together not only on the field but off the field as well,” Jackson stated in a previous interview.
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