FORMER Flying Fijians rep Ifereimi Rawaqa is likely to be appointed the new coach for the Lautoka rugby team.
Lautoka Rugby Union coaching director Apakuki Vacala said Rawaqa was the leading candidate for the top job.
The union kicked off its franchise competition yesterday sponsored by BLK at Nadovu Park.
The Vuda Giants defeated Yasawa Ambassadors 10-9 in the opening match.
Lautoka reps Sikeli Nasilasila, Manasa Seru and Masi Seru played for the Giants.
Vacala said the selection for the Lautoka team had started.
“We are grateful to BLK for the sponsorship and it has come at the right time,” he said.
“This is the first time that the company is sponsoring a competition like this.
“The franchise competition will help lift the fitness and skill level of the players ahead of the Skipper Cup competition.
“Ifereimi has offered his services which we are seriously considering.”
Rawaqa made his test debut in 2002 at the age of 21 years against Samoa in Apia.
He led Lautoka to both major titles in 2003 winning the then Telecom Cup and the Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy.
Rawaqa signed up with Japanese club World Fighting Bull in 2004 and represented Fiji at the World Cup in 2003 and 2007.
He was part of Fiji’s 2005 World Cup 7s winning team.
