Obituary — Lemeki Koroi
1969 — 2020
HE had a big heart, was caring, passionate and loved those around him. These are some character traits associated with the late former Fiji 7s rep Lemeki Koroi.
Originally from Serea Village in Naitasiri, Koroi was a member of the National Sevens team that won the 1997 World Cup Sevens in Hong Kong.
He scored two tries in the final against South Africa to see Fiji crowned the world rugby champion in the Rugby World Cup 7s. A report published by The Fiji
Times on Tuesday September 15 reported that Koroi was part of the late Rupeni Ravonu-coached national side which was captained by the greatest 7s player of all time, Waisale Serevi.
Serevi described him as one of the unsung heroes of the Fiji team.
“He was always the engine of the team, working and working, never complained and was always talking and encouraging other players.
“When we made game plans against other teams and selected players to mark, he would always ‘Dou laivi ira kece mai vei au
(leave them all to me). That’s the warrior spirit in him.”
Luke Erenavula said Koroi was stocky but he had a big heart.
“He was always the favourite of most players he played with including me,” he said.
“In 1997 before the tournament, one of our relatives died and I was discussing with Naituyaga. Koroi was always with Naituyaga”.
He heard us and said “Be strong. We are here for Fiji. If one thing you have to contribute to those grieving at home, make sure you take the Melrose Cup back to them. That will make them happy.
“I have a lot of memories about Lemeki.
The best was in 1997 in the World Cup 7s when I was selected to be his
and Naituyaga’s security to guard them every time and everywhere they go. Koroi joins members of the Melrose Cup 7s winning team who had moved on such as coach Ravonu manager Jone Biaukula, Aminiyasi ‘Steelmen’ Naituyaga, and former Queen Victoria School sprinter Inoke Maraiwai.
The surviving members are Jope Tuikabe (Suva), Taniela Qauqau (Yasawa/Australia), Marika Vunibaka (Gau/Aust), Manasa Bari (Aust), and Luke Erenavula (USA).
He passed away at 50 and is survived by his wife and two daughters.
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