The late Epi Kolinivala, founder of the Kombat Uluinakau Rugby Club, would have been filled with pride if he were alive to witness recent events. In 2021, Kolinivala noticed a young player named Ponipate Loganimasi at the Gaunavou Sevens tournament in Savusavu, where he was representing the local club Bilibili. Recognizing Loganimasi’s talent, Kolinivala facilitated his move to Suva to join Uluinakau, marking the beginning of Loganimasi’s promising rugby career.
Born and raised in Nabua, Savusavu, but originally from Ono-i-Lau, Loganimasi made notable achievements this year, including winning a silver medal with the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team at the Paris Olympic Games. He also made his mark in the Pacific Nations Cup, scoring two tries during his Test debut against Japan.
Recently, Loganimasi signed a full-time contract with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for the next season’s Super Rugby Pacific. The 26-year-old expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, acknowledging the dreams many young players in Fiji have of playing for the Drua. He also thanked the team management for their trust and is eager to start training.
During his brief tenure with the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team in the 2023/24 World Series, Loganimasi scored an impressive 35 tries and participated in the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens, playing for the Fiji Babaas. He first entered the local rugby scene last year at the Nawaka tournament while captaining the Uluinakau team.
Loganimasi, versatile enough to play as an outside back in 15s rugby, is excited about making his Super Rugby Pacific debut. Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson highlighted the significance of Loganimasi’s signing, emphasizing the caliber of players the team is attracting and noting Loganimasi’s remarkable debut with the 15s team.
Loganimasi is the fifth Flying Fijian to join the Drua this off-season, following the recruitment of notable players such as Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.