The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has announced the signing of Ponipate Loganimasi, a Fijian 7s star and silver medalist at the Paris Olympics, on a full-time contract. The fast-paced athlete will join his Olympic teammates, Iosefo Masi and Selestino Ravutaumada, in the Drua Men’s squad for the upcoming 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
At 26, Loganimasi made an impressive debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians by scoring two tries in the Pacific Nations Cup final against Japan. He was called up to the Flying Fijians after Ravutaumada was injured in the first round of the tournament.
Originally from Ono-i-Lau, with maternal ties to Nabua in Savusavu, Loganimasi had a standout performance in the 2023-24 World Series campaign, scoring 35 tries with the Fijian 7s team before securing a silver medal in Paris. He also participated in the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens, representing the Fiji Babaas team, and made his local debut at the Nawaka 7s last year as captain of the Kombat Uluinakau team.
Loganimasi expressed his excitement about joining the Fijian Drua and emphasized the significance of the opportunity, stating, “I want to thank the Lord for the opportunity. I know it’s not a small opportunity, it is a big one. I know a lot of kids in Fiji dream about playing for the Drua team and I am so blessed to be given the chance.” He also extended his gratitude to the Drua management for their trust and looks forward to training with his new teammates.
Fijian Drua Head Coach, Glen Jackson, praised Loganimasi’s talent, noting that his debut with the 15s team was impressive and highlighting his capabilities on the sevens circuit. Jackson believes that Loganimasi will be a valuable addition to the club.
Loganimasi is the fifth Flying Fijian signed by the Drua during this off-season, as the team continues an active recruitment campaign that has already secured the signings of other international players, including Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.