Former Flying Fijians head coach Simon Raiwalui has been appointed as the assistant head coach for the inaugural First Nations & Pasifika Invitational XV. This team is set to compete against the British and Irish Lions at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne this coming July. Raiwalui’s rich rugby experience positions him well on the high-profile coaching panel led by Toutai Kefu, a former Wallabies forward and Tonga head coach.
Joining Raiwalui on this coaching staff are rugby icons including Fa’alogo Tana Umaga, an All Blacks legend and mentor for Moana Pasifika, along with Sekope Kepu, formerly of the Wallabies and Blue Sharks. Raiwalui’s impressive track record includes leading the Flying Fijians to the quarter-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, marking a significant achievement for Fijian rugby.
After his time with the Fiji Rugby Union, Raiwalui took on a role with World Rugby and subsequently became the Director of Performance for the New South Wales Waratahs, marking his first official position within a Super Rugby franchise.
Rugby Australia has expressed excitement about this initiative, noting the cultural significance of showcasing First Nations and Pasifika cultures on such a prominent platform. This match represents a chance to unite diverse communities through the passion for rugby, highlighting the potential for shared experiences and collective pride across nations.
This development reflects a hopeful future for rugby as it continues to embrace inclusivity and celebrates the rich heritage of its participating communities, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
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