Former coach Simon Raiwalui and the FIJI Water Flying Fijians received significant recognition at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards held in Suva. Raiwalui was awarded the Coach of the Year title, while the Flying Fijians were honored as the Team of the Year.
Raiwalui was celebrated for leading Fiji to triumph in the Pacific Nations Cup and for notable victories, including an upset against England at Twickenham and defeating the Wallabies for the first time in 69 years at the World Cup in France last year. Additionally, he played a crucial role in guiding the Flying Fijians to their first quarterfinal appearance at the World Cup in 16 years.
Although Raiwalui could not attend the ceremony, the award was accepted on his behalf by FRU administrator Sale Sorovaki. The Flying Fijians were recognized for their remarkable achievements in 2023, notably their wins over England and Australia.