The legacy of the late Epi Kolinivala, founder of Kombat Uluinakau Rugby Club, is being honored with the rise of promising player Ponipate Loganimasi. Kolinivala, who in 2021 took the Uluinakau Babaas to the Gaunavou Sevens in Savusavu, recognized Loganimasi’s talent while he was playing for Bilibili, a local club. Not long after, Loganimasi made the move to Suva to join Uluinakau.
Originating from Ono-i-Lau and raised in Nabua, Savusavu, Loganimasi has made significant strides in his rugby career. He was part of the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team that clinched a silver medal at the Paris Olympic Games this year. Additionally, he represented the Flying Fijians during the Pacific Nations Cup, scoring twice in his Test debut against Japan.
In a recent development, Loganimasi has signed a full-time contract with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season. Expressing his gratitude, the 26-year-old stated, “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.”
Loganimasi has also made an impact by scoring an impressive 35 tries during his time with the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team in the 2023/24 World Series, culminating in a silver at the Olympics. He has participated in local competitions such as the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens and captained the Uluinakau team at the Nawaka tournament last year.
As he prepares for his debut in Super Rugby Pacific, Loganimasi looks forward to making his mark. Glen Jackson, head coach of the Fijian Drua, emphasized the significance of this signing, recognizing Loganimasi’s incredible potential and previous performances. “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,” Jackson remarked.
Loganimasi is the fifth Flying Fijian to join the Drua this off-season, contributing to a remarkable recruitment strategy that includes notable players like Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.