The late Epi Kolinivala, founder of the Kombat Uluinakau Rugby Club, would have felt immense pride at recent developments. In 2021, Kolinivala took the Uluinakau Babaas team to the Gaunavou Sevens tournament in Savusavu, where he recognized the potential in young Ponipate Loganimasi, who was then playing for the local club Bilibili. Loganimasi soon transitioned to Suva to join Uluinakau, marking the beginning of his promising rugby career.
Originally from Ono-i-Lau, Loganimasi was raised in his mother’s village of Nabua in Savusavu. He contributed significantly to the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team, securing a silver medal at the Paris Olympic Games this year. He also represented the Flying Fijians at the Pacific Nations Cup, where he impressed by scoring two tries during his Test debut against Japan in the final.
Recently, Loganimasi signed a full-time contract with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season. The 26-year-old expressed his gratitude, stating, “I want to thank the Lord for the opportunity. I know it’s not a small opportunity; it is a big one. Many kids in Fiji dream of playing for the Drua team, and I feel blessed to be given the chance.” He also thanked the Drua management for their confidence in him and is eager to begin training with the team.
During his brief time with the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team in the 2023/24 World Series, Loganimasi scored an impressive 35 tries before earning a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. He has also showcased his skills at the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament, where he played for the Fiji Babaas team, and captained the Uluinakau team at the Nawaka tournament last year.
Loganimasi, who excels as an outside back in 15s rugby, expressed anticipation for his Super Rugby Pacific debut. Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson remarked on the significance of Loganimasi’s signing, stating, “I think it means a lot for the Drua, showcasing the quality of players we’re recruiting. His debut with the 15s team was unbelievable.” Jackson also noted Loganimasi’s proven success on the sevens circuit, anticipating he will be a valuable addition to the team.
Loganimasi is the fifth Flying Fijian to join the Drua this off-season, continuing a strong recruitment trend that has welcomed notable players such as Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.