Fijian Drua captain Tawake excited by rising talent as team prepares for Super W season

Bitila Tawake, captain of the McDonald's Fijian Drua Women, expresses deep satisfaction in witnessing the rise of a new generation of players within the team. As the squad gears up for its Super W season opener against the NSW Waratahs, Tawake finds her leadership role most rewarding when observing young athletes fulfill their dreams of playing for the Drua.

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Just hearing them say they used to watch us on TV and looked up to us as role models, and now they’re playing alongside us, that’s probably more exciting than being captain.

"Just hearing them say they used to watch us on TV and looked up to us as role models, and now they’re playing alongside us, that’s probably more exciting than being captain," Tawake shared. She believes the influx of fresh talent signifies the continued expansion of women's rugby in Fiji and reflects the significant progress of the Drua program since its inception.

Several players are poised to make their Super Rugby Women's debuts this weekend, a development Tawake sees as crucial for strengthening the domestic game. "Seeing them grow every day, absorb the environment and continue adding value to the team is something we look forward to. Their debut means a lot, not just for the team but for the growth of women’s rugby in Fiji," she stated.

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Seeing them grow every day, absorb the environment and continue adding value to the team is something we look forward to. Their debut means a lot, not just for the team but for the growth of women’s rugby in Fiji.

The Drua face an immediate challenge against the Waratahs, a team that has set the benchmark in the competition. Tawake, however, is confident in her team's readiness. "We know they’re always one of the toughest teams in the competition. They always bring their A-game and so do we." The team's strategy focuses on executing fundamentals while maintaining their signature flair, anticipating a physically demanding match.

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We know they’re always one of the toughest teams in the competition. They always bring their A-game and so do we.

Tawake anticipates a fiercely contested game, particularly in the forwards, against the Waratahs' renowned power. "I think there’s going to be a lot of physicality. They have some dominant Wallaroos players in their squad, so it’s definitely going to be a game to watch." With experienced players guiding emerging talent, the Drua aim to make a strong statement in their opening match, setting the stage for a potentially successful season.

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I think there’s going to be a lot of physicality. They have some dominant Wallaroos players in their squad, so it’s definitely going to be a game to watch.