Injury won’t halt Nai’s Drua dream

Imeri Nai, flyhalf for the McDonald's Fijian Drua Women, never imagined she would reach professional rugby. Her journey is a testament to seizing unexpected opportunities. Nai is currently sidelined with an injury from a preseason match against the Waratahs, but she expresses gratitude for her place with the franchise.

"Last year I joined the Drua but couldn’t play because of injury. I’m grateful to the Drua management and especially to God for bringing me this far," Nai said. Unlike many of her teammates, Nai's athletic background is in football. She represented Nadi and Fiji in soccer, even competing in the 2023 Pacific Games.

“

Last year I joined the Drua but couldn’t play because of injury. I’m grateful to the Drua management and especially to God for bringing me this far.

Her transition to rugby began later in 2023 after attending a local match. Witnessing an injury to a player, Nai approached team officials and expressed her interest in the sport. Within a week, she was training with the Nasinu team in Suva, marking the start of her rugby career. She played her first Marama Cup season in 2024 before being called up to the Drua Women's offseason and preseason program.

"This is only my third year in rugby. I never imagined I’d be here one day, but I’m grateful to God for the opportunity," Nai stated. Despite the current setback, she is focused on rehabilitation and eager to return to the field. The Drua women's team is on a bye this weekend.

“

This is only my third year in rugby. I never imagined I’d be here one day, but I’m grateful to God for the opportunity.