“I am honoured to receive this award, many people have contributed to this achievement, my parents, coach, fellow players, management and many more,” Masi said last night.
Sevens Olympian Iosefo Masi and Vani Arei during the Fiji Airways Drua awards night at Sofitel Fiji Resort on Denarau, Nadi on June 11, 2024. Photo: Waisea Nasokia
Sevens Olympian Iosefo Masi was named the Times Sport Player of Year (men) at the Fiji Airways Drua awards Sofitel Fiji Resort on Denarau last night.
The Fiji Airways Drua awards night is an annual event that marks the achievements of the Fiji Drua, with the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua women included for the first time this year.
An emotional Masi, 25, after receiving his second award said he owed it to numerous people who had contributed to his achievements on the rugby paddock.
“I am honoured to receive this award, many people have contributed to this achievement, my parents, coach, fellow players, management and many more,” Masi said last night.
Masi also picked up the Times Sports player of the year award.
Fijian Drua women centre Vani Arei was named Rooster Chicken women’s player of the year.
Of the 14 awards presented last night, eight were for the Drua Men and six were for the Drua women.
From left, Mum Makarita Savai, son Selestino Ravutaumada, Frank Lomani and Anesi Grace during the Fiji Airways Drua awards night at Sofitel Fiji Resort on Denarau, Nadi on June 11, 2024. Photo: Waisea Nasokia
“We’re raising the bar and for the first time the Fijian Drua women are part of the evening, given their transfer from Fiji Rugby Union to Counter Ruck Limited in December 2023,” Drua head of Commercial and Marketing Shane Hussein said.
“The night is a time for celebration, recognition, and inspiration,” he said.
Sailosi Vukalokalo picked up the Sky Pacific Community champion award.
The award is presented to the player who has diligently and enthusiastically helped Drua deliver on the club’s commercial obligations to sponsors and partners.
Vukalokalo was one of the five rising stars in the Fijian Rugby development group last year and was moved into the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua squad early this year into the 2024 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
Peni Matawalu was named ANZ personal development player award as a player who has made gains on his life after rugby plans.
Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj
