AFTER memorable seasons of wearing the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua jersey, lock Isoa Nasilasila admits saying goodbye is one of the toughest decisions he has ever had to make.
The Viseisei, Vuda native is among eight players departing the Drua at the end of the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, bringing an end to a journey that helped shape him both as a rugby player and a family man.
Joining him on the departure list are Inia Tabuavou, Ponipate Loganimasi, Etonia Waqa, Elia Canakaivata, Joseva Tamani, Ilaisa Droasese and Simione Kuruvoli.
For Nasilasila, the reality of leaving the franchise that gave him his professional rugby opportunity is still difficult to accept.
“It’s still pretty hard to accept, you know, leaving the franchise that brought me in so many years ago,” he explained.
“It’s been weighing down on me for a few weeks now. It’s a tough decision, but in regard to my future and what I want to achieve for my future and my family, it’s just a decision I have to make.”
The towering second-rower leaves behind not only a strong legacy on the field but also valuable advice for the next generation of Drua players coming through the development ranks.
“I think it would definitely be just to live in the moment.
“Take every moment as it comes. You don’t want to think too far ahead, and you don’t want to look too far behind. Just take every step on the way.
“I told the team earlier, take all the good memories and all the bad memories, but definitely just live in the moment.”
Reflecting on his time with the Drua, Nasilasila highlighted two career moments that will remain close to his heart.
The first was the historic victory over the Crusaders, a team he had always dreamed of facing.
“It would definitely be beating the Crusaders the first time. It was a dream playing against the Crusaders and to beat them was crazy.” Another unforgettable moment came this season when the Drua defeated the Brumbies both at home and away, including a breakthrough away victory that ended years of frustration.
“Seeing what the team has gone through and how hard we’ve worked over the last few years, that was probably one of my proud moments.
“You could see how much work the players, staff and management put in for us to finally get a result like that.”
While closing one chapter, Nasilasila is preparing to begin another after being named in the Flying Fijians Rugby World Cup squad.
The experienced lock said wearing the white jersey remains one of the greatest honours in rugby.
“Whenever you get called up to represent your country, it’s always a blessing, always a privilege and an honour.
“You can see the quality players that have been selected and the depth throughout the whole squad. It’s a great team to be a part of.”
As he prepares for his final days as a Drua player, Nasilasila reserved special thanks for the supporters who stood by him throughout his journey.
“It’s been a pleasure playing in front of you guys for the last five seasons.
“You guys have made it so easy to play for Fiji. I know it comes with tough times, but we’ve learned every step along the way.”
He also paid tribute to his family, partner and loved ones in Fiji and Australia for their unwavering support.
“To my family in Sydney, Gold Coast and here in Fiji, thank you for your support and for helping me become the player and the man I am today.” As one of the Drua’s most respected forwards prepares to move on, Nasilasila leaves with a legacy built on commitment, resilience and pride in representing Fiji. Though his time with the Drua is ending, his impact on the club and its supporters will not be forgotten.
