Fiji Sun

Savusavu for Fiji Bati Head Coach

- SHAHANI MALA SUVA Feedback: shahani.mala@fijisun.com.fj

Fiji Bati Head Coach Josaia Rabele aims to help young players to get a better life, become better people and better players.

Mr Rabele has paternal links from Bagasau Village, Savusavu, in Cakaudrove and maternal links in Naidi village in Savusavu.

He coached the Bati to their first World Cup semi-final in 2008.

He was also the assistant coach in the 2013 and 2017 Rugby League World Cups where they reached the semifinals

His hobbies include playing volleyball, teaching children about the game of rugby and spending time at the beach.

Mr Rabele has been involved in developmen­t of rugby league in Fiji for over 20 years.

Last year, he was selected to be the head coach of Fiji Bati team for the World Cup this year, but it got postponed to next year.

How many places in Fiji have you been to?

I have been around Viti Levu but not in the Lau Groups. Hopefully, one day I will visit the Lau Groups.

What is the one place in Fiji you would take every visitor to, and why?

I will take visitors to Savusavu because it is the hidden paradise of Fiji and this is where I am from.

What is your favourite place for a pie or coffee, and why?

My favourite place for coffee is home and Hot Bread Kitchen’s chicken pie.

What is your favourite backyard spot?

secret

At home where I enjoy teaching my sons the tackling technique.

What is the one place in Fiji that is on the top of your bucket list?

The only place I want to visit in Fiji is Vanuabalav­u island in the Lau Group.

I have heard a lot about Vanuabalav­u and its beautiful beaches.

 ?? An aerial view of Savusavu port in Vanua Levu. ?? Fiji Bati head coach Josaia Rabele.
An aerial view of Savusavu port in Vanua Levu. Fiji Bati head coach Josaia Rabele.
 ?? ?? Hot Bread Kitchen staff with breads and pastries.
Hot Bread Kitchen staff with breads and pastries.
 ?? ?? The Jade Pool in Vanuabalav­u.
The Jade Pool in Vanuabalav­u.

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