BEAMING smiles radiated from the faces of youngsters that had the chance to meet players of the Fijian Drua when they visited Wainaloka, in the south-western part of Ovalau Island yesterday.
The village was the first stop on the Drua’s community blitz programme, which began yesterday and will conclude today at Nasau Park in Levuka.
Six players, three each from the Swire Shipping-sponsored men’s side and from the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women, ventured out to see the school students eagerly awaiting their arrival.
They were Ponipate Loganimasi, Mesulame Dolokoto, Joseva Tamani, Vani Arei, Tiana Robanakadavu and Mereiwairita Neivosa.
Students from five schools near Wainaloka had convened at the village, which were Viro Primary School, Lovoni District School, Bureta District School, Visoto District School and Loreto District School.
Their visit to Ovalau Island was a highly-anticipated one, and prior to their visit of Wainaloka, had visited the factory of the Pacific Fishing Company (PAFCO) in Levuka, home of Sunbell, a sponsor of the Fijian Drua.
While there, staff had the chance to engage with the six players with photo opportunities and to sit down with them.
They were shown around the facility by PAFCO chief executive, Saiyad Raiyum.
This is the Fijian Drua’s first visit to the factory, and marked a new addition to their partnership after being announced as a sponsor in November last year.
Community blitz engagements are an opportunity for the Fijian Drua to reach out to far-flung communities where their fan base ranges from young and old, as the players become role models for them to be inspired by.
The Fijian Drua’s wrap up their community blitz today at Nasau Park, where ten schools will participate in the exercise.
These schools include Ratu Seru Memorial Primary School, St. John’s College, Taviya District School, Rukuruku Primary School, Marist Convent Primary School, Levuka Public Primary School, Levuka Public School, Delana Primary School and St. James Primary School.
