HUMBLE 7S GIANT HELPS
He will connect well with the villagers and the villagers will enjoy his company-Hakwa Foundation rep Selita Donu
Fiji Airways Fijian 7s forward Apenisa Cakaubalavu took time out for a worthy cause yesterday. Cakaubalavu was the ambassador for the Hakwa Foundation which assisted people of Vatulele who were badly affected by Tropical Cyclone Harold last month.
The Naroi, Moala Lau native, who made his debut at the Dubai 7s in 2018, led a contigent comprising Nadroga Rugby Union players to assist Vatulele villagers. Hakwa Foundation representative Selita Donu said the selection of Cakaubalavu to be the ambassador was the right pick for this worthy cause.
“The requirement was to have a current Fiji sevens player to be a ambassador so Apenisa was the right one because he lives here in Olosara Sigatoka,” she said.
“He is a humble player who connects well with the villagers.”
Nadroga Rugby president Tiko Matawalu said: “Apenisa is also part of Nadroga Rugby programme. We decided to help the Hakwa Foundation to support him as the ambassador and help our fans in Vatulele.” Cakaubalavu has been a mainstay of the Gareth Baber –coached side who can play as a forward or in the backline.
Always prefer to stay away from the spotlight, the 27-year-old loves to play as a utility player.
“The coach is working with me to be a utility from prop, hooker and rover. I will be contesting for spots with the backs.”
Fiji Airways Fijian sevens coach Gareth Baber said Cakaubalavu adds depth to the team.
“There is always potential for someone like Apenisa that play in several positions,” he said.
“It is something that we have used in our squad as well during training and potentially at international tournaments but we’ve got some very good forwards.”