Rugby surprise

FOR Flying Fijian Lekima Vuda Tagitagivalu, the last thing he expected to find in his message inbox was an email telling him his dreams had come true and he had been chosen to represent his home country in the Autumn Nations Cup in Europe.

“It was an emotional moment for me and I was overwhelmed when I received the email from the Fiji Rugby Union informing me about the selection,” Tagitagivalu told this newspaper.

“It was something my wife and

I never expected because we just never thought it could happen, but it has been a dream come true to represent my country.”

Standing at 1.92 metres tall, the rugged back rower from Marou Village, Naviti, Yasawa said his first thoughts trickled back to that of his late parents who he yearned to have been there to witness his achievements.

“I wish to have my late mother around to witness this moment with us as a family but I know she’s proud and smiling from above.

“We have been through a lot as a family but I have learned that

God is aware of our hardships and He is always there no matter what.

“He listens to our ‘silent pleads’ and our unseen tears.

“Without God I wouldn’t achieve or come this far.”

The former Tilak High School student who plays for Pau alongside former Flying Fijians Jale Vatubua, Watisoni Votu and national 7s rep Aminiasi Tuimaba is the younger brother of former Flying Fijian Ropate Ratu, who he says has been a pillar of support.

“Ropate has always been my instructor through most of my rugby career and I’m grateful to him and his family.”

“Not forgetting my wife Melania Nakete who has been my source of strength every day, for her endless sacrifices and who has been there for me through it all in my rugby career.”

The former Lautoka and Fiji under-20 player said he was looking forward to play alongside his fellow Fijians for the upcoming Autumn Tests and ready to do his part for Fiji.

“I believe we have a good mixture of experienced players and a lot of young players who have so much potential in them.