The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has officially signed Fijian 7s sensation and Paris Olympics Silver Medalist Ponipate Loganimasi on a full-time contract. Fans will be thrilled as the speedy athlete joins his Paris Olympics colleagues Iosefo Masi and Selestino Ravutaumada in the Drua Men’s roster for the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
Loganimasi, 26, made a significant debut for the national 15s team by scoring two tries in the Pacific Nations Cup final against Japan after being called up following an injury to Ravutaumada in the tournament’s opening round.
Originating from Ono-i-Lau and with family ties to Nabua in Savusavu, Loganimasi made an impressive 35 tries during his brief time with the Fijian 7s squad in the 2023-24 World Series campaign before clinching silver at the Paris Olympics.
He also participated in the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament, playing for the Fiji Babaas team, and first showcased his talent in the local scene at the Nawaka 7s last year while leading the Kombat Uluinakau team as captain.
Loganimasi expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Fijian Drua and is eager to make his Super Rugby Pacific debut, 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 further conveyed his gratitude towards the Drua management, saying, “I also want to thank the Drua management for trusting in me, and I can’t wait to start training with the boys.”
Fijian Drua Head Coach Glen Jackson remarked, “I think it means a lot for Fijian Drua; it shows the quality of players that we’re signing. Loganimasi’s debut with the 15s team was unbelievable.” He added, “We know how good he is on the sevens circuit, and I think he is going to be an extremely positive new recruit for our club.” Loganimasi is the fifth Flying Fijian to be signed by the Drua during this off-season, as part of a strong recruitment effort that previously included notable internationals like Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.