A night of celebration, recognition and reflection marked the fourth Annual McDonald's Fiji Drua Presentation and Awards Night, with flanker Kitione Salawa emerging as the biggest winner after claiming two major honours.
Held at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa on Denarau, the event brought together players, coaches, sponsors and supporters to celebrate the achievements of the club during the 2026 season.
Salawa took home the prestigious McDonald's Fiji Men's Player of the Year Award, the highest individual honour in the men's programme, as well as the Enore Players' Player of the Year Award, which is voted on by his teammates throughout the season.
The influential back-rower was recognised for his consistency, commitment and outstanding performances throughout the campaign, earning praise from coaches, staff, sponsors and fans alike.
Young talent Sairusi Ravudi was named the Punjas Men's Rookie of the Year after a breakthrough season that saw him make his Super Rugby Pacific debut and score a memorable try in the Drua's historic match in Ba.
Inia Tabuavou received the Tanoa Hotels Community Champion Award in recognition of his extensive work with communities, schools and sponsors, while also serving as a role model for younger players within the squad.
Samuela Tawake was awarded the Flick Hygiene Personal Development Award for his commitment to preparing for life beyond rugby through the Life After Rugby programme.
Mesake Doge received the Mogul Dausoko Award, presented to a player who best embodies the Drua's values of relentlessness, discipline and integrity.
Meanwhile, Manasa Mataele was voted the 2026 Tropik Wood Men's Fan Player of the Year after earning the most support from Drua fans throughout the season.
Drua CEO Jeff Miller says the club continued to fulfil two of its three key ambitions, inspiring a nation and changing lives for the better, while remaining determined to secure its first Super Rugby Pacific title.
Miller says the Drua's impact extended well beyond rugby, highlighting the club's community programmes, school visits and player development initiatives across Fiji.
He also pointed to the club's growing economic contribution, revealing that ANZ research estimated the Drua contributed approximately $108 million to Fiji's GDP during the 2025 season, an increase of more than $40 million from 2023.
He says the Drua is no longer just a rugby club, it is a national asset, an economic contributor, a source of opportunity and it is changing lives across Fiji.
Despite missing out on the Super Rugby Pacific finals this season, Miller praised the team's resilience and fighting spirit, particularly the support shown by fans throughout the campaign.
He also paid tribute to the players and staff departing the club, thanking them for their contribution to the Drua's growth and success over the years.
Looking at this week's qualifying finals, the Hurricanes will take on the Brumbies at 7.05pm Friday, the Crusaders will host the Blues at 4.35pm Saturday and the Chiefs will meet the Reds at 7.05pm.
