Semisi Matawalu could hardly have imagined that he would one day watch his son, Vodafone Fiji Bati winger Semi Valemei, play in front of a home crowd. Last weekend, that dream became a reality for the native of Navidamu, Macuata.
Matawalu, along with 14 other family members, journeyed from Vanua Levu to witness Valemei compete against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. While the Bati lost the match 10-22, Matawalu expressed his joy in seeing his son score a try.
“I’ve only seen Semi on television; I feel blessed to have watched my son play for Fiji at home,” he shared. “When coach Waisake Kativerata scouted him for rugby league in Australia, I never doubted his potential; I knew he was destined for greatness.”
Matawalu expressed gratitude towards the coach for providing Valemei with the chance, noting that it has been a rewarding experience for their family, especially from a financial perspective. He emphasized the pride Valemei has brought to their family and village.
Valemei, 25, covered all travel and ticket costs for his family, who traveled from his village for the event. He left home in 2018 while studying at Seaqaqa Central College, subsequently joining the Caloundra Sharks in Sunshine Coast for a year before being signed by the Canberra Raiders Under-20 team. The following year, he earned a spot in the 30-member squad for the NRL.
His debut for the Bati came in 2019, and he made his NRL debut with the Canberra Raiders in 2020. He signed with the North Queensland Cowboys last year and played 18 games during the 2024 NRL season, helping the team finish fifth on the points table.