Rising Star Winger Dies
At 26, it’s too early to go, says Narekuva’s mum.
Japan-based speedster built homes for his family members.
The man rugby pundits thought should be in the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua backline for the Super Rugby Pacific competition is no longer with us today.
Dashing winger, Nacanieli Narekuva, commonly known as “Rekwa” to close family members and friends, died after a short illness in his village of Tau in Nadroga on Tuesday night. He was 26 years old.
His mother, Makereta Raqele, told SUNsports yesterday they were finding it hard to accept his death.
Narekuva supported them from his earnings while playing professional rugby in Japan.
“He left us too early. We are still in shock,” she said.
“He is not here and I can feel his absence. It’s hard.”
An emotional Raqele said she was always grateful for her son.
“We thank him for the big things that he has done and we are content with what he has given us. He built several homes for our family members. He has paid his homage. Nothing more is expected from him, but I’ll miss my son.”
Narekuva was born with Microtia – a congenital deformity where the pinna (external ear) is underdeveloped.
He was one of the finds of the 2019 Skipper Cup season when he played for Nadroga.
Narekuva made it to the Fijian Drua squad that took part in the Australian National Rugby Championship, and the Fijian Latui, in the Global Rapid Rugby competition.
He then secured a contract with French club Mountaban before joining top Japanese club Toyota Verblitz, for a three-year contract.
He played alongside former All Blacks captain, Kieran Read, who helped develop his game.
Narekuva returned last November to recuperate after he underwent a knee operation. During his rehab, Narekuva fell ill and was bedridden before his death. He attended Tau Primary School, Nawai Secondary School and Lomawai Secondary School.
While in primary school, Narekuva declined to take up athletics because he was ashamed of his ear, but changed his mind after watching a rugby game at Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka.
Tau villager Filimoni Nawalu said the fallen speedster was always special to them.
“On the pitch he looks rough and fast but in real life he is a gentle person with a big and loving heart,” Naivalu said.
“He is one of the true sons of Tau. Narekuva has set the platform and standard for many more young aspiring rugby players to follow. We will miss him.”
Narekuva is survived by his parents, and three siblings.
He will be laid to rest in his village next Wednesday following the church service at 10am.