Junior keen to follow dad’s footsteps

Waisele Serevi Junior wants to make a name for himself. The son of the sevens maestro put on his rugby boots and played for the King 7s Select in the youth competition of the McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s tournament.

His side reached the Plate final and the lanky Qarani, Gau, native scored a try in their 17-12 win over Wesley Fijians. Serevi Jnr spoke to SUNsports of what is was like to play at home and his love for rugby

SUN: What is like to be playing on Fiji soil? JNR:

This is my first time to be part of the event. The big factor here is the weather as we live in USA. I’m beginning to get use to the weather here but overall I’m enjoying my time here with the other boys.

SUN: You played American Football in high school. Are you serious about it or you’re intending to stick to rugby union

JNR:

I missed my football game last season because of injury. This is the first time I’m playing after I had recovered.

Right now I might stick to rugby but if there is another opportunity to play football again I’ll take it but at the moment I’m enjoying rugby. as I’m in my last year of high school.

SUN: In rugby, say who do you choose to play for Fiji or USA?

JNR: It is a hard question but whatever comes and if any opportunity arises from Fiji I’ll be glad to be part of it.

SUN: Do you remember what happened after the final of the 2005 Rugby World Cup 7s in Hong Kong where your dad carried you on his shoulders to receive the Melrose Cup?

JNR: Not really. I know back at that time I could only remember those flashing lights from the cameras with people being happy and celebrating. After viewing the video later on then I realised that yes it was something big but at that time I was not really aware of what was happening.

SUN: That win was among the few historic moments for Fiji Rugby and its people. Would you love to continue from where your dad left off?

JNR:

Yes of course my dad has done great things and I would want to continue to do the things he does and follow his legacy and also make my name. I would do just that even if it means to play rugby till I die.

SUN: How’s the support from your family? JNR:

My sister is here playing too so I’m having my friends here also. My family is also watching back home and support is always there even from my dad who is now coaching Russia.