Rawaqa joins Flying Fijians coaching team

Former Flying Fijians lock Ifereimi Rawaqa is the Fiji Water Flying Fijians new assistant forwards coach and national contact coach. 

Head coach Mick Byrne made the official announcement at Rugby House, Suva, yesterday. 

Byrne said this is to strengthen the national side’s preparation for next season and the build‑up to the Rugby World Cup cycle. 

He said the appointment added depth to the coaching group and recognised Rawaqa’s growing influence within Fiji’s high‑performance system. It will be a critical component of modern Test rugby as the Flying Fijians begin their preparations for the 2026 international season and the long-term build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. 

Rawaqa had joined the squad during the Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) and travelled with the Flying Fijians on the Europe tour. 

“He has a very key role in our coaching group,” Byrne said. 

He added that he had worked with Rawaqa since arriving in Fiji in 2022. 

“Bringing someone of Ifereimi’s calibre and direct experience into our coaching group is a significant boost for the Flying Fijians. 

“He has lived the jersey, having battled in the trenches for Fiji on the world’s biggest stages across two Rugby World Cups. That understanding of what it means to represent Fiji at Test level, especially in the forward pack, is invaluable.” 

“I’ve seen the presence he has around the players and how he presents himself as a coach. It’s a great opportunity for us to work together.” 

Rawaqa said he was honoured by the appointment. 

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity and the trust shown by coach Mick (Byrne),” he said. 

“My primary objective is alignment and growth. My past experience really shaped me, and it’s an honour to take on this role and be part of Fiji Rugby Union again.” 

He confirmed that his main responsibility would be managing the collision aspect of the both attack and defence. 

“That’s my core role with the Flying Fijians.” 

Byrne clarified that the appointment did not replace current forwards coach Graham Dewes; Dewes is still the head forwards coach. 

“One of our intentions is to drive what we’re doing at the top end of the game down into Fiji Rugby,” Byrne said. 

“Younger players coming through will start to align themselves with what we’re looking at national level.” 

He said Rawaqa would play a key role in helping local coaches understand national standards. 

“He’ll be instrumental in helping coaches at the lower levels,” Byrne said. 

“We want a consistent approach to the game.”