Former Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Strength and Conditioning head coach Nacanieli Cawanibuka has been appointed as the new High Performance General Manager of the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU). The announcement was made at the FRU headquarters in Suva by Chair John Sanday.
Cawanibuka, who has completed a four-year tenure with the Fijian Drua, will transition to his new role after the club’s final match this weekend. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “It’s an honor to take up this role and continue serving Fijian Rugby in a new capacity. Fiji has incredible raw talent, and our goal is to build performance systems that are consistent, sustainable, and player-centered.”
Cawanibuka brings a wealth of experience to his new position, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Science, Sports, and Exercise Science, as well as a Master’s in Professional Practice and High Performance Sport. His previous achievements include playing a pivotal role in helping Fiji’s men’s 7s team secure gold at the Summer Olympics in both Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2021, alongside leading the team to various World Championship victories.
This change in leadership at the FRU comes during a dynamic period for Fiji Rugby. The recent appointment also aligns with broader organizational objectives, as highlighted by the recent changes in governance and the strategic focus on enhancing both men’s and women’s rugby programs in anticipation of important events like the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
As Cawanibuka embarks on this new chapter, the optimism surrounding his leadership suggests possibilities for growth and continuous evolution within Fiji Rugby, driving the sport’s development and performance on both national and international stages. The collective efforts of the FRU board and new leadership reflect a promising future for rugby in Fiji, underscoring a commitment to nurturing talent and building a robust framework for success.
The Fijian rugby community eagerly awaits the positive impacts of Cawanibuka’s expertise and vision, embodying hope for the emergence of a bright era for rugby in the islands.
Leave a comment