The Fiji Rugby Union’s (FRU) Acting CEO, Koli Sewabu, has announced an enhanced focus on cultivating clear pathways for secondary school rugby players who may not immediately find spots in the Drua Academy or secure scholarships abroad following the Deans competition. Recognizing the limited number of positions available within the Drua Academy, Sewabu highlighted the FRU’s commitment to creating more inclusive opportunities for young players to remain engaged in rugby beyond their school years.
Sewabu stated, “In terms of our rugby pathways, that’s something that the new team is seriously looking at. Next year is a whole new game changer, and this agreement is just perfect for that, to set the foundations.” He pointed to key domestic competitions, including the Skipper Cup and Vanua Cup, as crucial avenues for players to continue their development within the national rugby framework.
Additionally, the FRU is working on enhancing its High Performance Unit and is focused on refining the overall structure of the Drua Academy, which is starting to identify talent as early as the under-16 level. Beyond local talent identification, efforts are underway to strengthen ties with overseas Fijian communities to support players transitioning abroad for educational opportunities or club contracts.
In a further commitment to supporting young athletes as they navigate the evolving landscape of rugby in Fiji, Sewabu confirmed plans to establish a Rugby Players Association. This association will aim to assist players in their development and provide ongoing support throughout their careers.
The initiatives outlined by Sewabu resonate with the recent establishment of the Drua Academy, which has begun to sharpen the focus on nurturing young players. The Academy has already welcomed its inaugural cohort of 29 players under 16, illustrating a comprehensive strategy by the Fijian Drua to develop local talent effectively and sustainably. This dual-focused approach emphasizes both the immediate needs of young athletes and the long-term sustainability of rugby in Fiji, offering hope for the future of the sport and its players.
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