The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua’s commitment to player development is yielding impressive results, as highlighted by the recent announcement that four players from the club’s development program have officially made it to the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific main squad. This achievement illustrates the success of the Drua’s initiative to build a pathway for local talent.
Mark Evans, CEO of the Drua, expressed his satisfaction with the program, noting the rapid progress made in just three years. “Out of 39 players, 10 have come from development,” he stated, emphasizing that achieving such a substantial output from a relatively new program is a significant accomplishment. Evans highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for young players and showcasing their journeys as a testament to the potential within Fijian rugby.
The development squad has seen some players, like Philip Baselala, take three years to move up to the main team, while others, such as Mesake Vocevoce, have made quicker advancements after only a few months in the system. The diverse recruitment strategy utilized by the Drua encompasses scouting across various platforms, including the Skipper Cup competitions and sevens programs, ensuring that they attract the best talents available.
In a broader context, this commitment to local talent mirrors previous successes, as illustrated by Evans’ remarks on the encouragement and inspiration the current promotions provide to young athletes in the development system. The Drua’s focus not only aims to develop top-notch players but also seeks to solidify a sustainable future for rugby in Fiji.
This positive outlook is reinforced through initiatives such as the recently launched Drua Academy, aimed at nurturing younger players and establishing a foundation for elite rugby skills. By investing in future generations, the Fijian Drua is not only enhancing the individual prospects of its players but also fortifying the competitive landscape of rugby in Fiji, signaling a hopeful trajectory for the sport.