For Swire Shipping Fijian Drua lock Christopher Minimbi, it’s back to the lecture theaters and walkways of the University of the South Pacific Laucala Campus after his first season of the Super Rugby Pacific competition.
The 23-year old former Marist Brothers’ High School headboy and dux said it was a dream come true to play in the Super Rugby competition this year.
“It was good to take a lot of learnings from it,” said Minimbi.
“To get an experience of rugby at that level is good. We know what to expect from the competition now and we will go hard into this off-season.”
Minimbi shared that it was humbling playing against some of the sport’s biggest stars.
“It was an unreal experience getting to rub shoulders with them. After the first whistle goes, it’s game on, but I would chat with them and got to meet them after the game, so it was pretty awesome. It is a huge honour to play against some of the best in the world.”
He also shared there was some work to do before next season which he hopes to improve on.
“I have spoken to the coaches and I have a fair idea of what needs to be fixed in my attack and defensive plays. I am really going to tuck into it during the off-season and be a more helpful part of the team next year.”
Minimbi acknowledges that the support shown in his rugby journey and said he would not be where he is today without their support.
“I would like to thank my mum, my family and my grandparents for raising me. For all the coaches who taught me from Marist, the Naitasiri team and the High Performance Unit. Thank you for backing me and supporting me in my journey.”
Minimbi urges supporters to get behind the team next year and said it would be a good year for the Drua.
“That was just the beginning and the best is yet to come. We appreciate the support shown this year that really pushed us through when we were down. We cannot wait for next year and hopefully we make everyone proud.”
Minimbi is studying a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and urges youngsters to keep a balance of sports and education.
