Former Flying Fijians coach Simon Raiwalui emerged victorious among ten strong candidates to claim the 2023 FIJI Water Coach of the Year Award. Although he was not present at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards, his contributions leading the Flying Fijians during the Rugby World Cup in France were acknowledged.
Appointed as coach in February of the previous year, Raiwalui fostered a new environment for the team, reconnecting players with their roots and revitalizing their bond with their vanua and community. He played a pivotal role in guiding the team to success in the 2023 Pacific Nations Cup and led them to mark a historic win against Australia in the Rugby World Cup, their first victory over the team in 69 years, while also propelling them to the quarter-finals for the first time in 16 years.
Raiwalui was also nominated for the World Rugby Coach of the Year award. The recognition was praised by Fiji Rugby Union president, who reflected on the team’s achievements under Raiwalui’s leadership, highlighting the significant fundraising effort that raised nearly $12 million to support the team’s activities.
Additionally, the Flying Fijians were recognized as the Asco Motors Team of the Year for their impressive performances at the Rugby World Cup, surpassing six other strong nominees. Representatives from the team accepted the awards, with Sale Sorovaki picking up the accolade on behalf of Raiwalui and FRU chief executive Rovereto Nayacalevu receiving the honor for the Flying Fijians.