The Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, has emphasized that the Drua Under-16 Academy, operated by the Fiji Rugby High-Performance Unit, is the premier entry point for emerging rugby talent in the country. Each year, the academy selects 30 players from the Deans Competition throughout Fiji, providing an annual support allowance of $2,000 for their development over a two-year period.
As these athletes approach the age of 18, the most promising players are given the chance to join the Drua Development Programme, which offers starting salaries ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 per year. This initiative not only enhances their skills but also provides a pathway toward a professional rugby career. The top performers can secure contracts with the Drua franchise, beginning with a base salary of $40,000 annually.