The Fijian Drua has officially signed Vodafone Deans standout Maleli Nauvasi into the club’s Development program. The Queen Victoria School center gained recognition during the Deans competition, helping his school secure the premier (U-18) title in 2024, and was awarded player of the match in the final against Nasinu Secondary School.
Nauvasi’s addition is part of the Fijian Drua’s renewed emphasis on identifying and nurturing local talent at an early stage, creating pathways that may lead to professional contracts within the Super Rugby Pacific squad. Originally from Dratabu in Nadi, Nauvasi also participated in the Fiji Schoolboys U18 team, which emerged victorious in two matches against the Australia Schoolboys U18 last week, where he contributed with a try and an assist.
Having represented QVS in the Deans competition from U14 to U18, Nauvasi has played in various positions including flyhalf, wing, and fullback. Expressing his joy, Nauvasi remarked, “I’m really excited to be part of the Development program here at the Drua, especially staying close to my parents. I am very happy for this opportunity.”
Ifereimi Rawaqa, the Fijian Drua Development and Skills Coach, welcomed Nauvasi to the program, noting his promising talent and discipline on the field. Rawaqa stated, “Nauvasi has proven himself as a standout performer in the Deans and in the Fiji Schoolboys U18. I’m confident that with the right guidance and support, he can make a significant impact in the years to come. It’s a great opportunity for him to train alongside elite athletes and learn what it takes to compete at the highest level. We anticipate his progress.”
The Development program aims to equip young talents like Nauvasi with the necessary resources, coaching, and a high-performance environment to aid their transition to professional rugby. Nauvasi is now part of a squad of 10 other young players in the Drua Development program, where they receive a salary and train with the Super Rugby Pacific squad most days of the week. Additionally, development players are eligible to compete for provincial teams in the Skipper Cup, which coincides with the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.