The Fijian Drua Foundation has been launched to foster the growth and development of young rugby talent in Fiji. This initiative aims to establish high-performance pathways through the Drua Academy, allowing aspiring athletes to pursue their rugby dreams without leaving their families and communities. Historically, many young Fijians have had to move overseas at a young age to find opportunities in the sport, facing numerous challenges along the way.
Mark Evans, the CEO of Drua and a trustee of the foundation, highlighted the emotional and social difficulties faced by these young players, noting how some struggle with loneliness and cultural barriers that can lead to underperformance. The foundation aims to change this narrative by providing local options for development.
The Drua Academy will recruit talented young players from Fijian high schools in the U16, U17, and U18 age groups, training approximately 90 athletes annually. These players will receive training from the Drua’s high-performance staff, focusing on individual improvement in areas such as nutrition and conditioning. Participants will also be compensated, provided with gear, and allowed to continue representing their schools.
In addition to nurturing rugby talent, the foundation is committed to promoting health and education through community outreach programs. Evans reported that the foundation’s Anchor Kids Club has already made significant strides, connecting with over 800 children in 2024 alone. The program will expand in 2025, providing more school visits and resources aimed at healthy lifestyle choices.
The Drua Foundation also emphasizes community involvement, implementing strategies to better connect remote areas to sports opportunities. Their grassroots rugby initiatives aim to cultivate an environment of inclusion, fitness, and resilience among youth, with events like the Remote Communities Challenge aiming to bring schools together.
Overall, the foundation promises to transform the landscape of Fijian rugby by keeping talent local while also fostering a healthier, more connected community. This initiative represents a hopeful step towards supporting the next generation of rugby stars in Fiji, ensuring both personal growth and competitive excellence.
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