THE Fijian Drua has added five experienced professionals to its coaching and performance structure as part of the Drua Vuvale for the upcoming 2027 season.
Former Flying Fijians Ifereimi Rawaqa and Campese Ma’afu are among the additions, taking up the roles of forwards coach and scrum coach, respectively.
Alando Soakai joins as defence coach, while Dr Dale Thomas has been appointed clinical and performance psychologist coach and Luke Vasu as head of athletic performance.
The appointments bring together different areas of expertise as the Drua continues to develop its high-performance environment.
Fiji Rugby Union chief executive Koli Sewabu welcomed the move, saying the appointments also reflected the importance of developing local coaching talent.
“On behalf of Fiji Rugby, I want to acknowledge the CEO Jeff Miller and the Drua for their commitment to our development systems,” Sewabu said.
“The appointments of Ifereimi Rawaqa and Campese Ma’afu showcase exactly what the Drua pathway was built for -holistic growth.”
Rawaqa said being given the opportunity to work at professional level was both an honour and responsibility.
“As a local coach, it means a lot to have the opportunity to contribute to the Drua at this level. But I see it more as a responsibility than an achievement,” he said.
“There are a lot of talented local coaches coming through, and hopefully this opens the door and shows that there is a pathway for them too.”
Fiji Rugby Union general manager high-performance Naca Cawanibuka said Rawaqa and Ma’afu would bring their international playing experience into their new coaching roles.
He also highlighted Vasu’s development from a Fiji U20 trialist to a qualified sport science professional.
Vasu said he was grateful for the chance to return home and contribute to the franchise.
“I am truly excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the Drua vuvale,” he said.
Drua chief executive Jeff Miller said the coaching group would combine international expertise with a strong Fijian identity as the franchise enters its sixth season.
