Embrace Rugby Contracts Thoughtfully: Nadruku
Former Canberra Raiders star and Fiji sevens winger Noa Nadruku has urged Fijian sportsmen and women to embrace an opportunity to play overseas with an open heart.
The Namatakula, Baravi, Nadroga native is a living legend of the two codes.
After representing Fiji in rugby union, he switched to play rugby league in Australia for the Canberra Raiders (92 games between 1993 and 1997) and was named one of the best 25 players for the Raiders’ 25-year anniversary in 2014.
“If the opportunity comes your way or you are offered with one, take the contract with open arms,” he said.
“It is very important for you if you have a family. Do have an open mind set and work towards it.
“The opportunity upgrades you big time, first is you the player, then your immediate family then the extended family.”
He cautioned that not all contracts are the same, but players need to understand what they are there for – nothing is free and easy.
I must admit language was a barrier, the environment is highly professional and you must be quick to adapt.” Noa Nadruku Former Canberra Raiders star
“When I was playing in Australia I had learnt a lot,” said Nadruku. “I must admit language was a barrier, the environment is highly professional and you must be quick to adapt.
“You must help yourself first, you
can’t expect everything to be done for you.”
Prior to last weekend’s McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens at Lawaqa, Sigatoka Nadruku and former Kenya 7s captain Collins Injera were t inducted in the Rugby
Town Walk of Fame.
The two living legends were on hand to personally unveil their plaques which honour their respective careers.
Injera was also an ambassador for the tournament.
Nadruku and Injera join rugby 7s legends David Campese, Lote Tuqiri, Waisale Serevi, the late Jonah Lomu, Viliame Satala and Karl Te Nana in the star-studded Walk of Fame.
Nadruku has urged Fijians to support the national team just like the way Fijians did during his playing days.
“Let’s have big hope in the team,” he said.