Rugby champions Nadroga last night at the Shangri-La Fijian Resort launched their rugby museum project.

The museum which is exepected to cost about $1.2 million will be the first of its kind in the country and the Pacific where future generation will have easier access to information regarding the history of the Nadroga Rugby Union and its players

Project co-ordinator Ratu Saula Volavola told SUNsports that the project is titled Hakwa Nadro and would be beneficial to the rugby town.

“It’s the first museum institution that houses the collection and displays the heritage, history and culture of Nadroga rugby,” he said.

Architect Ashok Balgovind unveiled the design of museum as the two-year project will start in May next year.

“We are looking forward to this project as this is huge for NRU and the people of Nadroga.”

The launch was held together with the Nadroga Rugby Union annual awards night.

During the occasion, the Union farewelled police officer and lock forward Iliesa Ratuva and manager Apakuki Tuitavua.

Ratuva has been transferred to the Korovou Police Station and is joining Northland in the new season.

Vodafone Flying Fijians No.8 Eremasi Radrodro again scooped the Player of the Year Award and the 2016 Skipper Cup Player Award.

President Jikoibau Matawalu acknowledged the players for their efforts this season.

“We want to thank our gladiators for their efforts making this season a successful one,” Matawalu added.

AWARD WINNERS

Administration Category

Best Male Volunteer: Viliame Naveni

Best Female Volunteer: Kelera Tabaiwalu

Best official: Talica Dakia

Best Medics: Josaia Valerusa

Best Referee: Aisake Drekeni

Academy Category

U14 Player of the Year:
Tevita Batimala

U16 Player of the Year:
Aisea Tuifaleaki

U18 Player of the Year:
Tira Wailagi

U20 Player of the Year: Savenaca Navuniharau

Silver Category

Top Points Scorer: Jonetani Ralulu

Top Try Scorer: Alivereti Veitokani

Best HFC Farebrother Player of the Year: Apisalome Waqatabu

2016 Best Skipper Cup Player: Eremasi Radrodro

Gold Category

Player’s Player of the Year: Alivereti Veitokani

Coach of the Year: Esala Nauga

Player of the Year: Eremasi Radrodro

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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