Former Melbourne Rebels lock Angelo Smith will be returning to Fiji to play for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, on a two-year contract.
Hailing from Nananu, Tailevu, with family ties to Lomati, Kabara in Lau, Smith has made a commitment to the Fijian Drua for the upcoming seasons.
Known for his prowess on both attack and defence, Smith brings a valuable utility value to the team as he is also capable of playing at blindside flanker.
At 24-years-old, he is eager to return home and showcase his skills in front of his family and friends, expressing his excitement for the opportunity.
Smith’s rugby journey began at Marist Brothers High School before representing Fiji U20 in previous years.
He later moved to Brisbane to play for Wests Rugby in the Hospital Cup, where he played a key role in ending a 16-year championship drought in 2022.
This success led him to join the Melbourne Rebels in 2023, where he gained valuable experience and accumulated 20 Super Rugby caps.
“I am really looking forward to it, been playing my rugby away from home, very excited to play some footy in front of my family and friends.”
Fijian Drua General Manager Rugby, Baden Stephenson, praised Smith as a quality player with a strong track record in Super Rugby.
He highlighted Smith’s size, skill, speed, and experience, noting that he will bring valuable attributes to the Drua’s forward pack.
“He will add size, skill, speed and experience to our forward pack.
“It is great that players want to return home and Angelo’s best rugby is in front of him,” said Stephenson.
“I have every confidence that he will take this opportunity and love the Drua rugby environment.”
