Former Melbourne Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson has been appointed the interim general manager rugby for the Fijian Drua.
Stephenson will be taking over from Nico Andrade, a key member of the franchise’s foundation team, who will be leaving the club shortly to pursue another opportunity and reunite with his family in Brisbane.
In a statement, Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans expressed gratitude towards Andrade, highlighting his significant contribution to the club since its inception.
“Nico has been an integral and important member of the Fijian Drua since the club’s inception. We are very sad to have to bid him farewell, but happy that he is returning home to Brisbane with his young family.
“He will be missed by his many friends here at the Drua and will always be welcome back. His contribution to the growth of Fijian rugby in the last six years has been immense. We wish him the very best in his next role,” Evans said.
In response to Evans’ farewell remarks, Andrade expressed his appreciation for the hospitality he received from the Drua family.
“From day one, this has been more than just a job, it’s been part of building something that has not only created history but laid the foundation for the future success of Fijian Rugby. Rugby World Cup 2023 showed the short-term results, and I can’t wait to see what can be achieved in the next 5-10 years by both the men’s and women’s programs.
“To the players and staff that I have worked with throughout my time, thank you for welcoming me with open arms to Fiji and trusting me with such an important project.
“To Mark and the wider Fijian Drua organisation, I wish you all the best and know the best is yet to come. Vinaka vakalevu and sota tale!”
Evans expressed confidence in Stephenson’s appointment, citing his extensive experience in professional sports management.
“We are very happy to confirm the appointment of Baden Stephenson as interim GM. Baden is a senior professional sports executive with 25 years of experience as a player, head coach, general manager and CEO.
“He has worked in Japan and across Australia and is very well versed with the requirements of Super Rugby Pacific and Super Rugby Women. With both seasons concurrently in full swing, it was important that we have someone of Baden’s capability to lead the management groups of both the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Men’s and Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women’s teams,” Evans added. Stephenson expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the Fijian Drua team.
“I am really looking forward to working with Mark and the Fijian Drua. It is a great opportunity to learn and embrace a different culture.
“You can’t help but be drawn to the exciting rugby that the Drua play, the passionate fan base and the quality people involved at the club. I’m very excited for the new challenge,” he said.
Stephenson officially starts his new role on April 8.
