The Fijian Drua has added Vodafone Deans standout Maleli Nauvasi to its Development programme. The centre from Queen Victoria School played a key role in his team’s success, leading them to the premier (U-18) title in the Deans competition in 2024. Nauvasi was recognized as the player of the match in the final, where they faced Nasinu Secondary School.
Nauvasi’s signing aligns with the Drua’s renewed commitment to identifying exceptional local talent at an earlier stage and guiding them towards potential professional contracts with the Super Rugby Pacific team. Hailing from Dratabu in Nadi, Nauvasi was also part of the Fiji Schoolboys U18 team that triumphed in two matches against the Australian Schoolboys U18 last week, contributing with a try and an assist during that series.
Having represented QVS in the Deans competition from U14 to U18, Nauvasi has versatility on the field, having played as a flyhalf, wing, and fullback. Expressing his excitement about joining the Development program at the Drua, Nauvasi stated, “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, expressed his enthusiasm for Nauvasi’s inclusion in the program. He noted the young player’s notable promise due to his natural talent and discipline on the field. “Nauvasi has proven himself as a standout performer in the Deans and also in the Fiji Schoolboys U18,” Rawaqa said. He also emphasized that with the right support, Nauvasi has the potential to make a significant impact in rugby.
The Drua Development programme aims to equip young athletes like Nauvasi with essential resources, coaching, and a performance-oriented environment to facilitate their transition to professional rugby. He joins a group of ten other young players in the Drua Development squad, where they will earn a salary and train with the Super Rugby Pacific team on most days. Development players also have the opportunity to compete for provincial teams in the Skipper Cup, which runs alongside the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.