Tavuki, Kadavu native Naca Cawanibuka is the new general manager High Performance at the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU).
He becomes the third Fijian to hold this key position, following Talemo Waqa and Simon Raiwalui, and will officially take up the role on June 9.
FRU acting chief executive officer Koli Sewabu thanked World Rugby for its support throughout the selection process and praised the depth of local talent.
“We’re grateful to World Rugby for their support. It’s been a long process, but the good news is all four shortlisted candidates had Fijian backgrounds.
“It’s a good sign that we now have capable people ready to lead our high-performance space,” Sewabu said.
FRU Chairman John Sanday said Cawanibuka’s return marks an important step in the union’s long-term strategy to strengthen and localise leadership within the game.
“Today is a very auspicious day for Fiji Rugby Union as we welcome back one of our own.
“Naca is no stranger to this environment. His results and work speak for themselves, and we are excited to have him back to lead our high-performance program,” Sanday said.
Sanday said the appointment is part of a wider rebuild to prepare for upcoming campaigns, including next year’s autumn tour.
“We want to raise the standards of our high-performance unit so that the results on the field continue to improve.
“Drua was always meant to be a pathway for players, coaches, strength and conditioning staff. Naca has gone through that and returns ready to contribute in a bigger way.”
Sewabu added that Cawanibuka’s track record in high performance, sports science, and Olympic-level achievement made him the standout choice.
In his remarks, Cawanibuka expressed gratitude and humility for the opportunity.
“I’m blessed and humbled to return.
“I’ve been away with Drua for the past few years, and I’m grateful to the FRU, the board, the chairman, the CEO, and World Rugby for trusting me with this role.
“Rugby is the heartbeat of our nation. It brings joy, pride and sometimes disappointment but it unites us,” Cawanibuka said.
He acknowledged the many general managers who came before him and said he is ready to build on the foundations they’ve laid.
Fiji Rugby Union newly appointed High Performance Unit general manager, Naca Cawanibuka at the Fiji Rugby Union building in Suva on Tuesday, May 27, 2025. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU
