Drua says Rawaqa joins the Drua as Forwards Coach, with Ma’afu taking on the role of Scrum Coach, while Soakai has been appointed Defence Coach.
They say Dr Thomas joins as Clinical and Performance Psychologist Coach, with Vasu coming on board as Strength & Conditioning Coach.
The appointments mark an important step in the development of Fijian coaching talent, with Rawaqa, Ma’afu and Vasu emerging through Fiji Rugby’s coaching pathways to take up roles with the Drua.
Drua says the new appointments strengthen a coaching and performance group led by Head Coach Brad Mooar and Senior Assistant Coach Mike Catt, bringing together a blend of Fijian experience, international expertise and specialist knowledge as the club prepares for the seasons ahead.
The inclusion of former Flying Fijians Rawaqa and Ma’afu is particularly significant, reflecting the Drua’s commitment to developing homegrown Fijian talent and creating pathways for local coaches to progress to the highest levels of professional rugby.
Mooar says he was incredibly proud and humbled by the quality of the coaching and performance team assembled for the future of the Drua.
He says the new coaching and performance staff were hungry, curious learners and outstanding practitioners, bringing world-class experience from Test rugby, Rugby World Cups and competitions across both hemispheres.
Mooar also highlighted the importance of developing Fijian coaching talent as a foundational principle for the club.
He says the expanded coaching and performance group gives the Drua a strong combination of local knowledge, international experience and specialist expertise as the club continues to build for the future and strengthen its position at the highest level of professional rugby.
