Drua Academy captain Tane Susau has expressed his pride in leading his team during their historic inaugural match against Australia’s Melbourne Brothers, which took place at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. The match resulted in a significant victory for the Drua Academy, ending with a score of 40-17.
At just 16 years old, Susau has also garnered attention for his stellar performances with Suva Grammar School in the Deans competition, showcasing both leadership and skill as he navigates the challenges of guiding a team composed of future Super Rugby players. He acknowledged the pressures that come with leadership but highlighted the cooperation and purpose within the team, which made the experience rewarding. “It’s quite an honour… but at the end of the day all our glory and praises go back to our Father,” he said.
Susau is aware of the areas he needs to improve on, particularly in communication under pressure and team morale during challenging moments. He noted that the language barrier presents certain obstacles, yet he remains committed to overcoming them.
This match against the Melbourne Brothers was a unique opportunity, marking an important milestone for the Drua Academy, which seeks to develop rugby talent within Fiji. The academy has focused on nurturing young players, training groups from secondary schools across the nation to secure a sustainable pathway into professional rugby.
Such initiatives reflect a bright future for Fijian rugby, as they not only help in developing individual athletes like Susau but also strengthen the overall sport’s foundation in the region. With promising talent emerging from the academy, there is hope that the next generation of Fijian rugby players will continue to make their mark on international stages.
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