So long Master Lagiloa

Ranbeer Manak, Suva

Fiji is mourning the loss of one of its great sports strategists and mentor Epeli Lagiloa.

‘Master Lagiloa’ as he was affectionately known, was a wonderful gentleman with a big heart, who always wore a smile even in times of adversity.

A sportsman himself in his younger days, Master Lagiloa continued his passion as he matured undertaking many roles including coach, fitness and conditioning trainer, sports administrator, manager and the list goes on.

In the sporting circles Master Lagiloa was best known for his no nonsense approach towards discipline, fitness and emphasis on team work.

All these were underpinned by a wide range of strategies that Master Lagiloa developed over his career which led him to attain many successes both locally and internationally.

A man respected equally by his players and opponents.

A great mentor and friend to many players who I’m sure used his teachings as a guide to propel them to attain many great accomplishments and become global sporting ambassadors for Fiji.

The late Lagiloa was a man who was dedicated to his family, church, community as well as our beloved nation Fiji. Master Lagiloa served with distinction in every task he undertook.

A true leader who always led from the front, he set high standards and was always ready to challenge the status quo. He walked the talk and was never afraid to speak his mind.

He believed in knowledge sharing and was always at hand to encourage others. His love for sports was never ending, while he was known for his involvement in rugby, Master Lagiloa also assisted sporting teams and personalities in rugby league, netball, soccer, cricket, athletics and in other sports as well.

A humble soul with a down to earth personality who was always ready to crack a few jokes or share a few stories to lighten the mood.

It’s never easy to farewell good and close friends or family members - to you Master thank you for all the wonderful memories.

I will always be thankful to you, Bulou and the rest of the family for the times we spent together being neighbours.

Of the many wonderful times we shared. I clearly remember the times you called out to me as I tried to quietly make my way home every evening in Nadi to join you for a mix of kava and watch whatever sporting event was being shown on television or just to catch up on what was happening in the news.

From the small 2 bag baby-mix you always promised, before I knew it, the count was somewhere between 10 to 12 bags and with the time approaching midnight it was time for me to depart with wobbling legs home.

And as I trotted down the driveway you would call out “Hey mate another mix tonight aye!”

Thank you indeed for the fond memories and your contribution towards education, sports and national development.

You will be missed by us all. Rest easy... until we meet again - Moce Master!