The Fiji Times

7s comeback

BOLACA RECOVERS, PLAYS FIRST MATCH

- By JOHN CHETTY

NATIONAL 7s squad member Naoplioni Bolaca has finally made his return to the rugby turf after spending the past eight months in recovery from knee surgery last year.

The 27-year-old was part of the Fiji Babaas side that competed in the Fiji Bitter Nahehevia 7s at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka over the past two days.

Bolaca expressed his gratitude towards God for healing him and allowing him to step on to the field once again.

He said it was difficult to be sidelined for eight months and was unable to play any games but only trained and rested to recover.

Despite the challenges, Bolaca remained dedicated and focused on his recovery.

With optimism and determinat­ion, Bolaca said he saw improvemen­t in his injury and was eager to showcase his talent and contribute to the team’s success.

He said his ambition to represent his country at the Paris Olympics remained and acknowledg­ed the tough competitio­n for a spot in the team.

“If I get a chance, I will happily represent my country but it’s all God’s plan. I will leave it all to him,” Bolaca said.

“I know the road will be tough since every player is also working hard to be in the Olympics, it is a fighting battle.”

Bolaca said the collective goal of winning a gold medal at the Olympics

was highlighte­d in the unity and strength of the team.

His words reflect his resilience and faith in overcoming obstacles and achieving success in the sport.

Bolaca’s journey is a testament to the perseveran­ce and commitment required in elite sports, as well as the importance of staying positive and believing in oneself during challengin­g times.

 ?? Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU ?? He is back ... Napolioni Bolaca of Fiji Babaas in action during the Fiji Bitter Nahehevia 7s tournament at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka yesterday.
Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU He is back ... Napolioni Bolaca of Fiji Babaas in action during the Fiji Bitter Nahehevia 7s tournament at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka yesterday.

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