Fijian Drua partners with PRP to develop players on and off the field

The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have announced a partnership with the Pacific Rugby Players Association to enhance the off-field development and activities of the Club’s athletes.

The partnership will see PRP independently advocate on behalf of and assist Drua players, similar to the work done by the Rugby Union Players Association (RUPA, Australia) and New Zealand Rugby Players Association (NZRPA).

Under this arrangement, PRP’s Personal Development Manager Gaylene Osborne spent a few weeks in the Drua camp in Australia, working with players on their individual development needs and requests.

Drua CEO Brian Thorburn says the wholesome development and independent support network of athletes are very important to the Club.

He says they are delighted to have this official arrangement with PRP to work directly with the Drua players to ensure they have the support and space they need to grow and develop both on and off the field.

Thorburn says PRP does really good work in this space to provide guidance, counselling and education on off-field matters such as Finance, Education, Work-Life balance, and much more.

Fiji Rugby Union CEO John O’Connor says they are already working closely with PRP for assistance to players in the High-Performance Programmes like the 7s, U20s and Academy.

He says it’s wonderful to see that PRP continues this work for the Drua players.

O’Connor says they are all united in their desire to see the athletes gain further valuable skills and knowledge and take advantage of the numerous opportunities available after they have hung up their boots.

Speaking on behalf of PRP, the Personal Development Manager Gaylene Osborne says the Personal Development Programme (PDP) will equip the Fijian Drua players with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to manage their rugby careers, and their lives outside of rugby, and to lead positive and fulfilling lives.

She says all of this is likely to have long-term positive results for the players and their families.

Meanwhile, the Fijian Drua are on a bye this week and will play the Blues next Saturday.

In Super Rugby Pacific this week, the Hurricanes will meet Moana Pasifika at 7.05 tonight, the Crusaders will take on the Blues at 7.05pm Friday, the Reds will play the Rebels at 9.45pm Friday, the Chiefs will meet Moana Pasifika at 4.35pm Saturday, the Highlanders will take on the Hurricanes at 7.05pm Saturday and the Force will face the Waratahs at 9.45pm Saturday.