Setareki Turagacoke, a rising star in Fijian rugby, experienced a heartbreaking turn of events at the start of 2024. The 19-year-old, who recently made headlines for his debut with the Flying Fijians, lost his mother, Vani Ranavue, to a brief illness last Saturday.
Hailing from Dakuinuku in Tailevu, Turagacoke reflected on his mother’s support throughout his rugby journey. He recalled the pride she felt when he informed her of his debut in the national team. “When I told her about my Flying Fijian debut, she cried and said I had finally achieved my dreams,” he shared from France.
Turagacoke received the news of her passing while overseas. He expressed deep sorrow for his mother, who had always been his biggest supporter, imparting three key pieces of advice before each game: to enjoy the game, have faith, and trust himself. “I will hear that no more,” he lamented.
His mother, who concealed her illness from her children, leaves behind four children, including a younger sister and brother. Turagacoke’s older sibling plays rugby league in Australia, and he plans to step up in his mother’s absence to support his younger siblings.
He is expected to return to Fiji after competing in France to attend his mother’s funeral. In his message to young people, Turagacoke emphasized the importance of cherishing time with family, reminding them of life’s unpredictability. “We don’t know when we’ll leave this world but only God,” he said, urging others to express gratitude and strengthen family bonds.
In the world of rugby, Turagacoke has made significant strides. He played a vital role in his debut match against Spain, scoring a try that helped secure a 33-19 victory. His impressive performance earned him a place in the match-day squad against Ireland, where he also scored, despite the team facing a tough loss.
As a young athlete, Turagacoke’s journey serves as a testament to resilience. Despite the challenges he faces, his mother’s unwavering belief in him and his dedication to his family shines through, offering a hopeful perspective for both him and his younger siblings as they navigate this difficult time together.
This situation not only highlights Turagacoke’s achievements but also underscores the importance of family and support systems in overcoming adversity.
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