AN exciting chapter to our Fiji Waters Flying Fijians coaching team was unveiled yesterday with the appointment of former Flying Fijians lock Ifereimi Rawaqa to the team.
Rawaqa will assume the dual roles of assistant forwards coach and national contact coach.
In his new capacity, Rawaqa will work closely with head coach Mick Byrne and the coaching team to develop the forward pack and oversee the national contact area program, a critical component of modern Test rugby.
His appointment is a strategic addition as the Flying Fijians begin their preparations for the 2026 international season and the long-term build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Rawaqa expressed his honour at returning to serve the national team in a coaching capacity.
“Yeah, I’m very grateful for the opportunity and the trust shown by coach Mick, and I’m looking forward to this new role, and it’s an honour to work with Fiji Rugby,” he said.
Rawaqa brings a wealth of high-level playing experience, he was a pivotal player for the Flying Fijians at the 2003 and 2007 Rugby World Cups.
As a sevens player he lifted the Melrose Cup in 2005 in Hong Kong.
Head coach, Mick Byrne, welcomed Rawaqa’s inclusion, highlighting the unique value he adds to the setup.
The Fiji Rugby Union believes Rawaqa’s appointment strengthens the coaching infrastructure and commitment to integrating proven Fijian legacy with high-performance coaching for the future.
