After thirty years without a rugby team, Votualevu is seeing the revival of its rugby club. The Votualevu housing subdivision, near Nadi International Airport, has been home to many former national rugby sevens and fifteens star players.
During its peak, the club produced players such as legendary flanker Iokimi ‘Iron Man’ Finau, who captained both Nadi and the Flyin Fijians in the 1980s. The Rabaka brothers—Samisoni, Tomasi, and Saula—played for the Cavaliers under the late Don Collingwood’s leadership. Samioni and Tomasi also played for the Flying Fijians, while another top sevens player from the club was winger Benji Navunisalevu.
In addition to rugby talent, the club produced notable footballers like former Nadi and national striker Usaia Visawaqa and Akariva Ramusu.
Club president Waqa Vulawalu stated that the Votualevu Housing area had been in the red zone for various reasons but aims to change this perception by reviving the rugby team. He believes rugby can provide opportunities for young men to secure overseas contracts, bringing new opportunities to their families.
Vulawalu indicated that approximately 120 youths in the area, many of whom are school dropouts and unemployed, could benefit from being involved in rugby. He emphasized the potential positive impact on the community and noted the proximity of the Drua franchise as a significant opportunity to combat poverty.
The community, including various denominations, has united behind this vision. The club’s team manager is Vikatoria Rabaka, and the team chaplain is Seremaia ‘Tablee’ Visawaqa. They have begun training with the goal of participating in the next rugby sevens tournament and eventually joining the Nadi Rugby Union.