Players’ welfare is important, says former Fiji 7s rep
Former Fijian sevens rep Viliame Cegumalua says Fiji Rugby is still lacking the support that players need off the field.
Cegumalua who was part of Fiji’s first win during the 1977 Hong Kong Sevens better known as the Mecca of Sevens, played amongst local rugby legends like Tui Cavuilati, Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese, Qele Ratu, Isimeli Batibasaga, Robert Howard, Vuata Naresia, Senitiki Nasave, Rupeni Ravonu and Tevita Rabuli. Speaking to SUNsports, Cegumalua recalled being named in to play for the national squad while attending the University of the South Pacific.
“Looking at players now and what they had faced during the Rugby World Cup Sevens, it is the support for the players apart from the game. The financial support as they still need to look after themselves and their family,” the Tunuloa, Cakaudrove native said.
“This can also be a physiological factor while playing. We were so fortunate that a few of us were working and we were supporting other players and we helped each other in any way.
“At that time I was playing for Rewa and just finished from Koronivia to attend USP for my P2 science studies.
“When I was called to play I did not hold back and was willing to serve my country since back then we played against mighty teams like Samoa and Tonga.
“Our coach was Inoke Tabualevu, who persisted that I continue my rugby career but I chose to continue my education.”