Still hope for my son, says Nasilasila’s mum

There is still hope for my son despite World Rugby’s decision, says Amenoni Nasilasila’s mother, Asivina Leno.

On its official website, World Rugby says it “does not condone any person convicted of a serious crime and currently serving their sentence undertaking any official rugby activities under union jurisdiction”.

Former 7s player Nasilasila is serving an eight-year imprisonment sentence for rape.

He had been allowed to train with Namosi under the Corrections Service Yellow Ribbon Rehabilitation Project.

Ms Leno, 47, said she wasn’t moved by what people were saying and she trusted God would see her through.

“No matter what happens, I always put my trust in God for Noni’s life. The World Rugby and Fiji Rugby may make their decisions, but I am still hoping for the best and I will never give up for my son,” the single mother said.

“I have faith his case will soon be over and he is going to play again for Fiji.”

Ms Leno said she went through a hard time during Nasilasila’s case, but she continued to stand by him and encouraged him.

“People say a lot of hurtful words about him and that really hurts me. But am I always there for him, encouraging him that good days are ahead,” she said.

Ms Leno said it was always Nasilasila’s dream to play rugby.

“My eldest son has a love for rugby. Since childhood he represented his primary school and continued on to secondary school until he joined the Fiji Residents Rugby League. He was given a contract to play in overseas,” she said.

“He then asked me if he could switch and play union. He continued to play until he was picked by Gareth Baber.

“He was very skilful in playing rugby and he never said no to any coach who asked him to play for their team. He played for Nadroga and he told me he will play for Namosi because his dad is from there. “On Saturday I really cried when he told me that he wasn’t allowed to play for Namosi.

“But I knew the skills he had was God-given and it will carry him through.”