The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua team goes beyond rugby discussions and training at their base, they also learn about life after rugby and entrepreneurship.
These life lessons have captured the interest of Sikeli Rabitu, a native of Naila, Bau, Tailevu, prompting him to strategise his life and career for the next five years.
Acknowledging rugby careers have an inevitable endpoint, Rabitu expresses gratitude for the valuable insights provided at the Drua base. Learning about life after rugby and the fundamentals of small business have given him a significant boost.
“We all know that rugby one day will come to an end, and we must have something to support our family and we are grateful to be at Drua base and to be taught lessons on life after rugby and how to do small business is a big boost for us.
“We also learn investment, buying of properties which is really an eye opener for me,” Rabitu said.
A product of Suva Grammar School, Rabitu embarked on his rugby journey in the under-9 grade during the Milo Kaji rugby competition.
He continued to hone his skills at Suva Grammar School, representing the rugby team from U14 to U18.
His rugby prowess earned him a spot in the Fiji Schoolboys team during their tour to New Zealand in 2022, before joining the Drua camp. Regarding his future plans, Rabitu remains open to divine guidance.
“If an opportunity comes for an overseas contract, I will go; at the moment it will depend on God’s plan.”
Rabitu, who has maternal links to Nabudrau, Noco in Rewa, advised youths on the importance of listening and respecting their parents.
Meanwhile, the Drua kick off their 2024 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign against the Blues at Whangarei in New Zealand on February 24.
The Drua play their first home match against defending champions the Crusaders at Lautoka’s Churchill Park on March 9.
