Mark Evans, the outgoing CEO of Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, has expressed a heartfelt farewell to the organization, its players, and the passionate rugby fans of Fiji. As he reflects on the team’s accomplishments, Evans highlights the significant growth of rugby in the nation. Under his leadership, the Drua have established themselves as a professional platform showcasing Fijian talent while competing effectively against some of the globe’s top teams.
Evans acknowledges that building a world-class rugby team is a long-term journey. He believes that while notable progress has been achieved, much more potential remains to be tapped. “The message, not just for the players but for the whole organization and for the country, is… we’re nowhere near where we could get to, or where I think we will get to,” he stated. His vision encompasses a commitment to securing victories in prestigious competitions over time.
The Drua have become a vital component of Fiji’s rugby landscape, providing local players with invaluable experience while allowing them to stay in their home country. This approach not only strengthens the Drua but also enhances the cohesiveness of Fiji’s national teams. The men’s 15s squad has consistently maintained a top-10 world ranking, while the women’s team has impressively climbed from 23rd to 13th in the global standings within a year.
Evans emphasizes that true success is intertwined with the overall rugby infrastructure in Fiji, which includes school programs, training facilities, and player welfare systems. He remains optimistic about the future of Fijian rugby, believing that ongoing investment in youth development and resources will enable Fiji to sustain its esteemed position among the rugby elite. “Look, I’m pretty optimistic about it. I think we’ve come a long, long way… and I don’t think we’ve stopped improving yet,” he remarked.
As he steps down, Evans leaves behind a legacy of hope and advancement for Fijian rugby. While the Drua play a crucial role in this journey, he envisions a broader landscape where Fiji could consistently compete against the top-tier teams in global rugby. His farewell was marked by warmth from management, staff, and players in Nadi on Thursday evening, with former Wallabies flanker Jeff Miller set to succeed him.
Looking ahead, the Drua are scheduled to kick off their upcoming season against Moana Pasifika on February 14 at Churchill Park in Lautoka at 3:35 PM. This new chapter for the team and for rugby in Fiji is filled with potential and promise, positioning them for future achievements.