For the love of rugby: Die-hard Fijian Drua fans

By Alipate Pareti

Seva Newton travelled from Vagadaci, Ovalau to watch the Fijian Drua prevail over the Hurricanes this weekend.

The 64-year-old, loves to watch rugby and has been closely following the Fijian Drua this season.

“I always come to watch the games. When they play in Lautoka, I go to Lautoka. I’m always there to support and cheer them on.”

Newton travelled to Viti Levu on Friday, to make sure he did not miss the action.

“I came by boat on Friday to sleep over at a relative’s place so I can arrive here at the Stadium early in the morning. I did not want to miss this game.

“Today, I left there at 10am so I can reach here when the gate opens early and find the best seat with the right view.”

Newton acknowledges the efforts of the Ovalau boys in the Fijian Drua and other Super Rugby teams.

“I support the Drua because there are a couple of Vagadaci and Ovalau boys in the team. Joe Tamani, Samu Tawake and not forgetting our Canterbury Crusaders prop George Bower. I come to the games to support these boys.”

Newton is happy with the Drua’s performance this season.

“They are doing really well considering it is only their second season of Super Rugby. And it motivates me to keep coming to watch them live at the grounds.”

Another supporter who travelled some way to watch the Drua win was Waisake Gadolo from the village of Nadroumai in Nadroga. Gadolo is 63 years old and was happy to attend the game with his grandson.

“This game is very special for me and the people of Nadroumai. We have two boys in today’s game. Kalaveti Ravouvou plays for the Fijian Drua and Kini Naholo is playing for the Wellington Hurricanes.

“We are here to support them both. And as you can see, we have our t-shirts made just for this one game with both their (Ravouvou and Naholo) pictures printed on them. This is to show them that we are here for them.”

Gadolo shared how the villagers of Nadroumai organised a bus to help them rally behind their boys.

“We planned and contributed in getting a transport for us to come watch the game. And today, our bus was full with 60-plus passengers including men, women and children.

“We are happy to be here to cheer for our boys. We are always ready to support them.”

The Fijian Drua have two more home games left in 2023 Super Rugby Pacifika fixtures.