Fiji Rugby Delivers Final Respects, Hands Over Body of Late Coach Lasarusa Senibale

In a sombre and dignified ceremony this afternoon, the Fiji Rugby Union has finally repatriated and handed over the body of the late Coach Lasarusa Senibale to his grieving family. Mr. Senibale, a revered educator and rugby development stalwart, passed away on October 3rd, 2025, while on tour in Canberra, Australia, serving as the forwards coach for the Fiji School Boys team.

The emotional handover took place at the family’s residence in Kinoya, Suva. The Fiji Rugby delegation was led by Board Chairman Mr. John Sanday and included senior management and staff. They were joined by the Hon. Jese Saukuru, representing the Ministry of Youth and Sports, representatives from the Fiji School Boys Rugby Team, and former colleagues of Mr. Senibale from the Ministry of Education. Together, they presented their reguregu to the family and the Vanua of Waimaro, to which the late coach belonged.

Mr. Senibale was a pillar of both education and rugby in Fiji. He was the dedicated Head Teacher of Suva Methodist Primary School and devoted countless hours to nurturing the sport at the grassroots level. His passion made him a key figure in player pathway programs, most recently with the Fiji School Boys during their tour of Australia.

His influence extended far beyond the field. As a World Rugby Accredited Educator, he was instrumental in upskilling both aspiring coaches and budding young players. Acquiring a World Rugby Level 3 Coaching Certification, Mr. Senibale’s leadership was recognized on the world stage when he led the Fiji 7s team to the Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games.

Before his untimely passing, he was the Coach of the Naitasiri Under 20 side and served as the forwards coach for the Fiji School Boys in their matches against the touring Australian School Boys, both last year and in the recent tour.

Fiji Rugby Union Board Chairman, Mr John Sanday expressed the union’s profound sorrow, stating: “On behalf of Fiji Rugby, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and workmates of Mr. Lasarusa Senibale. Lasarusa was not only a husband, father and teacher but also a proud representative of our nation who carried our hopes and spirit with dignity and pride. His untimely passing while on tour in Canberra has left a profound void in our rugby family. We are grateful for the dedication, passion, and joy he brought to the game and we thank the Vanua of Waimaro, Na Gone Turaga na Roko Tui Waimaro and its people for allowing us to work with one of their sons in service to the nation. May his memory continue to inspire future generations of Fijian rugby. Vinaka vakalevu, Lasarusa — rest in peace.”

Mr. Jone Kanalagi, President of the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union, also shared his tribute. “We thank him when he expressed his interest. And last year, for those who were vying for assistant coaches, he was the most meritorious. That’s why it was given to him despite him being a primary school teacher. We appreciate that he took it with both hands and did a great job. I believe some of the students, some of the players from last year are playing in the Skipper U20, even in the Skipper Cup. And that is testament to his commitment to rugby and youth development.”

Mr. Senibale is survived by his wife and three daughters. He will be accorded a final farewell befitting a dedicated servant of Fiji. A funeral service will be held tomorrow at 10am at the Centenary Church in Suva, followed by burial at the Lovonilase Cemetery.

Rest in Peace, Sir.