After spending 15 years with Rewa FC and winning some of Fiji football's biggest honours, veteran defender Peniame Drova is preparing for a special homecoming as he returns to represent Navua in the BiC Fiji FACT 2026.
Fiji Football Association says for Drova, the tournament marks more than just another competition; it is the continuation of a journey that began as a young football fan supporting Navua from the stands.
They say when Navua won its first-ever Fiji FACT title in 2003, a 13-year-old Drova was among the crowd celebrating the historic achievement.
Fiji FA says watching his hometown side lift the trophy inspired a dream that would shape his football career and that dream eventually took him to the national age-grade teams before he joined Rewa FC in 2010.
They say over the next 15 years, Drova became one of the most respected defenders in local football where he helped Rewa win multiple Fiji FACT titles, league championships and other major trophies while also representing Fiji on the international stage.
Fiji FA says despite his success with the Delta Tigers, Navua always remained close to his heart and last year, Drova made the decision to return to his hometown club, bringing with him a wealth of experience and leadership.
Now, as Navua prepares for the BiC Fiji FACT 2026, the veteran defender is set to achieve something he has waited a lifetime for.
Fiji FA confirms despite enjoying a successful career and winning Fiji FACT titles with Rewa, this will be Drova's first Fiji FACT campaign wearing the colours of Navua.
Drova recalls that winning the Fiji FACT title in 2003 was a special moment for the whole town.
He says as a young boy, seeing Navua win Fiji FACT made him dream about playing at that level one day.
The BiC Fiji FACT starts next Friday until the Sunday while the semi final and final is the following week at Subrail Park in Labasa.
Navua faces Rewa next Friday at 5pm in its opening match, before meeting hosts Labasa at 6pm on Saturday and Suva at 1pm next Sunday.
