First plane ride inspires Turagaiviu to do better in the sport
Travelling in the plane for the first time has inspired localbased- player Marika Turagaiviu to achieve bigger and better things in rugby league.
In his early 20s, Turagaiviu and Mesake Kurukitoga flew from Nausori to Nadi International Airport early yesterday morning to catch their connecting Fiji Airways flight to Sydney, Australia, to join the Vodafone Fiji Bati squad for Saturday’s Pacific Test clash against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls.
“This is the first time I’m actually on a plane and it’s a dream come true,” Turagaiviu who plays for USP Raiders told SUNsports.
“I’ve always dreamt of getting on the plane and actually play for the Bati.
“This is a dream come true and another one is to actually play and train with the Bati players.
“Now I get to train with Bill Kikau, Tui Kamikamica, Maika Sivo and the NRL players.”
The former Ratu Kadavulevu School rugby league player said this was an opportunity of a lifetime and he thanked Bati head coach Josaia Rabele for giving him the chance to experience it.
“The experience of flying is different and it is actually stunning.
“The check in process and everything is exciting and I can’t wait to see it all again.
“It was quite an emotional farewell for me this morning as my family said their good-byes. Their farewell has really inspired me to work hard and reach my goals.
“My goals are to play in the NRL and the Bati to make my family proud.”
Family legacy
Kurukitoga is no stranger to overseas tours and rugby league since he is the son of Nadera Panthers head coach and former Bati first five Vula Dakuitoga.
The 23-year-old said the opportunity to play for the Bati on Saturday is a blessing to his sporting career.
“I’ve been to overseas and there’s nothing special than this one.
“It’s all I ever worked hard for and it has paid off for me.
“The challenge here is to keep our family legacy in the sport.
“To get a contract in Australia is a blessing but I just can’t wait to start. I’ll have to work hard as there is no easy road to success,” he added.
Both players are named in the Bati’s 50-member extended squad for the Rugby League World Cup in England from October 15 to November 19.