The late Epi Kolinivala, founder of the Kombat Uluinakau Rugby Club, would have felt a sense of pride witnessing the latest achievements of Ponipate Loganimasi. In 2021, Kolinivala recognized Loganimasi’s talent while he was playing for a local club during the Gaunavou Sevens tournament in Savusavu, leading to Loganimasi joining Uluinakau shortly after.
Originally from Ono-i-Lau, Loganimasi was raised in his mother’s village of Nabua, Savusavu. He recently showcased his skills on the international stage as part of the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team, earning a silver medal at the Paris Olympic Games. Loganimasi also represented the Flying Fijians in the Pacific Nations Cup, where he scored two tries in his Test debut against Japan.
In a significant career move, 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. I know a lot of kids in Fiji dream about playing for the Drua team, and I am so blessed to be given the chance.” He also thanked the Drua management for their faith in him and eagerly anticipates starting training.
Loganimasi enjoyed an impressive run, scoring 35 tries during his brief tenure with the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team in the 2023/24 World Series before winning a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. He participated in the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament with the Fiji Babaas team and made his local competition debut as captain of the Uluinakau team in the Nawaka tournament last year.
Known for his versatility, Loganimasi is looking forward to making his Super Rugby Pacific debut. Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson remarked on Loganimasi’s potential impact: “I think it means a lot for the Drua; it shows the quality of players that we’re signing. Loganimasi’s debut with the 15s team was unbelievable… We know how good he is on the sevens circuit, and I think he is going to be an extremely positive new recruit for our club.”
Loganimasi becomes the fifth Flying Fijian to join the Drua this off-season, following the signings of notable internationals including Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.