Seremaia Bai’s exploits on the pitch inspired a generation of Fijians to play rugby, but to Tavaita Rowati, he is a coaching role model.
Bai hung up his boots in 2016 having won more than 50 international caps and played at elite level in New Zealand, France and England, and is now his country’s assistant coach.
Rowati holds a similar position with Fiji’s women’s team and has adopted many of Bai’s values in her own approach to coaching.
“I aspire to be like him because he holds high values – discipline, hard work and sacrifice – from when he used to play,” Rowati told World Rugby.
“He also values life after rugby which is something that I want to do through my career. I want to help young ladies achieve, through rugby, something for themselves, especially a security for life.”
Rowati’s own coaching career began in 2018 when she was sidelined by a knee injury. She became just the second female Fijian coach to gain a Level Three coaching award, having graduated from university with a diploma in Sports Science.
Fiji first employed her as Strength and Conditioning Coach of the national women’s team – a role that has expanded as she has gained experience, including being a participant of the Gallagher High Performance Academy in 2023.
Rowati is back for a second year, eager to continue her coaching development, learning and sharing of ideas with other talented female coaches from across the rugby world.
“The Gallagher High Performance Academy has helped me connect with players, management and the rugby community as a whole, working with people who can help me to reach my goals and continue to grow as a coach,” she said.
“It’s helped me become a more effective coach, learning all aspects of the game. I enjoy getting to know different individuals and working with them through their rugby careers. Seeing them progress and watching them excel, not just in rugby, but outside the sport, is very satisfying.”
“I’ve learnt a lot about who I am as a coach; what my strengths and weaknesses are. That is really important for me in terms of moving forwards with my coaching career.”
“I now have a better sense of clarity, as well as the things I need to do to get me where I want to be, and what my aspirations are.”