The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua is gearing up to compete in the much-anticipated McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens, scheduled for January 16-18, 2025, at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. This tournament is rapidly solidifying its reputation as one of the premier rugby events in Fiji, featuring a mix of top local and international teams that draw large crowds and significant attention.
Head coach Glen Jackson expressed his gratitude for the Drua’s inclusion in this prestigious event, underscoring its dual importance as both a competitive opportunity and a platform for player development. “It’s a massive competition that keeps growing all the time, so we’re very thankful for them for allowing us to enter again,” Jackson stated. He highlighted how the Coral Coast 7s offers invaluable game time for both the full squad and development players to refine their skills and strategies.
The Drua have used this tournament in the past to evaluate player combinations and fitness levels, preparing for their upcoming seasons in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific league. Jackson also remarked on the unique aspects of competing against elite sevens players, which provides a vital opportunity for those primarily trained in 15s rugby to showcase and improve their capabilities.
Jay Whyte, chairman of the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens Organising Committee, expressed his enthusiasm at having the Drua, the first professional rugby franchise in Fiji, participate in the event. This not only highlights the team’s growing influence but also reflects their robust support base, with reports indicating that about 55% of the Fijian population follows their games.
The history of the Coral Coast Sevens is replete with appearances by rugby legends such as Waisale Serevi, Jonah Lomu, Rasta Rasivhenge, George Gregan, Bryan Habana, and Dan Norton, whose contributions are commemorated on Sigatoka’s ‘Rugby Town Walk of Fame’. The inclusion of such esteemed figures significantly enhances the appeal of the tournament, making it a must-attend event for rugby enthusiasts.
In the context of fostering local rugby talent, the Drua’s participation is set to inspire the next generation of players in Fiji. As excitement builds for the tournament, fans are eager to see their beloved Drua players compete with fervor and skill, promising an exhilarating display of rugby that showcases the passion and talent of Fijian players.