The late Epi Kolinivala, founder of the Kombat Uluinakau Rugby Club, would have felt immense pride as Ponipate Loganimasi progresses in his rugby career.
In 2021, during the Gaunavou Sevens tournament in Savusavu, Kolinivala recognized Loganimasi’s talent while he played for the local club Bilibili. Soon after, Loganimasi joined Suva to play for Uluinakau, marking the beginning of a significant journey.
Loganimasi, originally from Ono-i-Lau but raised in his mother’s village of Nabua in Savusavu, was part of the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team that earned a silver medal at the Paris Olympic Games this year. He also made headlines by scoring two tries in his Test debut against Japan during the Pacific Nations Cup while representing the Flying Fijians.
Recently, Loganimasi signed a full-time contract with the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season. The 26-year-old expressed his gratitude, stating, “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.” He also thanked the Drua management for their trust and looked forward to training with the team.
During his stint with the Fiji men’s rugby sevens team in the 2023/24 World Series, Loganimasi scored an impressive 35 tries before competing in the Paris Olympics. He also participated in the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens tournament with the Fiji Babaas. Last year, he captained the Uluinakau team at the Nawaka tournament, showcasing his leadership skills.
Loganimasi, who excels as an outside back in 15s rugby, shared his excitement about making his Super Rugby Pacific debut. Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson emphasized the significance of Loganimasi’s signing, noting his outstanding performance in both sevens and 15s rugby.
Loganimasi is the latest addition to the Drua’s roster, marking the fifth Flying Fijian recruit this off-season, following the signings of notable international players like Joseva Tamani, Peni Ravai, Inia Tabuavou, and Vuate Karawalevu.