Former coach Simon Raiwalui and the FIJI Water Flying Fijians received significant recognition at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards held in Suva last night. Raiwalui was awarded Coach of the Year, while the Flying Fijians were honored as Team of the Year.
He earned this award for leading Fiji to triumph at the Pacific Nations Cup and achieving historic victories, including an upset against England at Twickenham and a win over the Wallabies, marking their first victory against Australia in 69 years during the World Cup in France last year.
Raiwalui also played a crucial role in helping the Flying Fijians reach the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time in 16 years. Although he was unable to attend the ceremony, FRU administrator Sale Sorovaki accepted the award on his behalf.
The Flying Fijians were celebrated for their remarkable accomplishments in 2023, which notably featured their victories over England and the Wallabies.