Nawanawailagi’s abilities a living testament

NORTHLAND assistant backline coach Waisake Bole has labelled winger Nasoni Nawanawailagi as a living testament that people with disabilities can do anything.

“He is one of the brightest players we have in our squad and a living proof that we can do anything when we put our heart to it,” Bole said.

Nawanawailagi of Naimasimasi Village in Vugalei, Tailevu, is suffering from speech and hearing impairment.

He competed in the Fiji Bitter Nawaka 7s and Fiji Bitter Marist 7s tournaments playing for the Blue Diamond 7s team. He made his debut last weekend for the Northland development team.

“Having watched him display his skills on the pitch, it’s clear to see that he rises above the pack solely because of his dedication and not letting his disability hold him back.”

Bole said Nawanawailagi had set a standard to all sports lovers.

“If Nasoni can do it, so can any of us. We are all humans and we have dreams and wishes that we want to fulfil. With a lot of hard work, we can achieve our dreams to play.”

Meanwhile, coach Isake Katonibau has named a strong line-up this week in the hopes of tackling Tailevu in their own back yard. Tailevu hosts Northland at the Nakelo District School ground at 3pm tomorrow.

Northland: 1.Watson Cabetilomaiviti 2. Isaia

Naqicatabua 3. Osea Sauvi 4. Lorima Nodrakoro 5. Avisa Naqali 6. Mosese Qionimacawa 7. Epeli Basituka 8. Neumi Namosimalua 9. Shawn Mucunabitu 10. Jope Dreu 11. Livai Ravonu 12. Michael Stewart 13. Jese Tubunaruarua 14.Taitusi Namoumou 15. Saint George Talei. Reserves: 16. Osea Seru 17. Jacoro Kenatale 18. John Muller 19. Emori Logavatu 20. Simione Ratabacaca 21. Pita Wilson 22. Mena Radruguwale 23. Sikeli Vakadewabuka