The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has announced the signing of Fijian 7s standout and Paris Olympics Silver Medallist Ponipate Loganimasi on a full-time contract. Fans are thrilled as the speedy player joins his fellow Paris Olympics teammates Iosefo Masi and Selestino Ravutaumada in the Drua Men’s squad for the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.
The 26-year-old made a striking debut for the national 15’s team, scoring two tries in the Pacific Nations Cup final against Japan after being brought in to replace the injured Ravutaumada during the tournament’s first round.
Originating from Ono-i-Lau with familial ties to Nabua in Savusavu, Loganimasi scored an impressive 35 tries during his brief time with the Fijian 7’s team in the 2023-24 World Series campaign, culminating in a silver medal at the Paris Olympics.
Loganimasi participated in the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament, representing the Fiji Babaas team. He first caught attention in the local competition at the Nawaka 7s last year, where he captained the Kombat Uluinakau team.
Loganimasi expressed his excitement about joining the Fijian Drua, stating, “I want to thank the Lord for the opportunity. I know it’s not a small opportunity; it is a big one. Many kids in Fiji dream about playing for the Drua team and I am truly blessed to have this chance.”
He also extended his gratitude to the Drua management for their trust, saying, “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 we’re bringing in. Loganimasi’s debut with the 15’s team was unbelievable.”
Jackson further stated, “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 becomes the fifth Flying Fijian signed by the Drua in this off-season, joining an impressive lineup that includes other international players such as Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.