SWIRE Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has thrown his support behind debutant Maika Tuitubou as the side prepares for a tough Super Round clash against the Chiefs this Sunday at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch.
Jackson described Tuitubou as a product of the Drua development pathway, highlighting his steady rise through the ranks after impressing at Fiji U20 level.
He has worked hard to cement his place in the professional environment, earning praise not just for his performances, but for how he has adapted to the demands of top-level rugby.
“Maika has come through our system and played unbelievably well at U20 level. It’s never easy for a young man to find his spot in professional rugby, but he’s done that really well,” Jackson said.
The coach revealed that Tuitubou’s selection came as a surprise even to the player himself, making the moment even more special when his teammates acknowledged him with a round of applause upon his naming.
“To see the reaction from the team was unreal. That’s the reward for a young man who has worked hard. It won’t be perfect for him in his first game it’s a tough environment, but we believe he can grow into a player like Samu Tawake and go on to play 50 games for the club,” he added.
Beyond the match, Jackson also shared a message for young fans across Fiji, acknowledging the strong connection between the Drua and the community.
He said the sight of children proudly wearing Drua colours continues to inspire the team, reinforcing the club’s purpose of representing the people of Fiji.
“This club was built for the people of Fiji. I love seeing Drua colours everywhere, not just at home but also in New Zealand and Australia,” Jackson said.
He encouraged young boys and girls to keep believing in their dreams, stressing that Fiji remains one of the strongest rugby nations in terms of passion and participation.
“For those who want to wear the Drua jersey one day or become professional rugby players, it’s important we keep that love for rugby alive. Fiji is special in that way, and we want to make sure the next generation continues to embrace the game.”
The Drua squad departed the country on Thursday and will be looking to make a strong statement against the Chiefs as they continue their Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
