Rowati returns to Drua Women in new coaching role

Tavaita Rowati has returned to the McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women as an assistant coach, expressing optimism about the rapid expansion of women's rugby in Fiji. Rowati, who previously served as a strength and conditioning coach for the team in 2022 and 2023, sees his transition to coaching as a significant progression in his rugby career.

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It’s a pretty big step to step into as an assistant coach now.

Rowati highlighted the substantial growth in women's rugby in Fiji, attributing it to increased interest following the success of various Fijian women's teams, including the Fijiana and Drua Women, on international stages like the Rugby World Cup and the Olympics. "We're definitely getting a lot more girls interested in coming into the game," he stated.

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There’s a lot of interest around that, and we’re definitely getting a lot more girls interested in coming into the game.

He also commended the development of structured pathways for young female players through school and club competitions, such as the Raluve competition and Under-16 and Under-18 grades. Rowati acknowledged Fiji Rugby and local unions for their efforts in strengthening the women's game through expanded provincial and club competitions, which are crucial for building a strong player base.

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The inclusion of the Raluve competition, secondary school competition, and the Under-16 and Under-18 grades has been really good.

The Fijian Drua Women are set to commence their 2026 Super W season with an away match against the Waratahs on June 6 in Australia.

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That’s been really good in terms of strengthening and building quality players coming through the system.