Malele commits to sharing rugby knowledge with players

FLY-HALF Enele Malele is committed to sharing his rugby knowledge with upcoming rugby players, whether it is in 7s or 15s.

The Fiji Warriors skipper is also the captain of the Pacific Nomads side which competed at the 12th McDonald’s Fiji’s Coral Coast 7s that ended yesterday at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.

Malele’s rugby profile is welldocumented; he was part of the first Fijian Drua team that competed in the Australian National Rugby Championship and the Fijian Latui in Global Rapid Rugby.

He has been plying his trade with the Suva rugby team in Fiji Rugby’s Skipper Cup competition.

When asked about his plans and ambitions, Malele said age had caught up with him but he will continue to stay involved in the sport.

“I’m 34 this year and as time goes by, teams like the Drua also consider age when it comes to selection. So I’m just playing to stay fit and be part of the sport that I love.

“I also use my time to advise the younger boys. I always remind them that time and chance only come once so if an opportunity comes knocking, grab it with both hands. Rugby requires a lot of patience and perseverance and players need to remember that in every game there are always people looking to scout for talent,” Malele stated.

The Suva fly-half used the Coral Coast Sevens to stay in shape ahead of the Skipper Cup which starts on February 24.

“I first took part in the Coral Coast 7s last year for the Pacific Nomads where I played alongside the veteran Pio Tuwai. Sevens rugby as we know is fast and physical and the training is just as intense.

“The training and getting some game time is ideal in my pre-season preparation, especially with the Skipper Cup set to start next month.

“This is my chance to stay fit and set a benchmark for myself throughout this season.”