Bula Ballers player Manoa Vakatawabai, a young rover, is pursuing his dream of representing Fiji at the national level, a goal dear to every young Fijian athlete. During the Fiji Bitter Marist 7s Tournament, he showcased his talent by scoring tries that contributed significantly to his team’s 22-14 victory over VBM Dayals Black Heron, marking an impressive debut in the tournament.
Vakatawabai, hailing from Naqelewai Village in Naitasiri, expressed his aspirations during an interview, stating, “Every Fijian boy has aims and dreams, and I am also aiming to achieve that dream, and that is represent Fiji.” His involvement in the Bula Ballers program has allowed him and his teammates, who come from various regions like Namosi, to display their skills at a prestigious venue like Suva.
He acknowledged the challenges faced during training yet highlighted the camaraderie among the players, which has fostered their collective improvement. “Sometimes it was hard where we trained, but we have come together to show our talents and best of all we came to show it in Suva at the biggest stage the Marist 7s,” Vakatawabai added.
This year’s Fiji Bitter Marist 7s emphasizes the rising talent and hope within Fiji’s rugby scene, with notable participation from various grassroots teams across the nation. Similar to the experiences of other young players such as Seru Logayau from the Village Boys and Abele Vukaloto, who are also aiming for national recognition, Vakatawabai’s journey embodies the spirit of perseverance and aspiration that prevails among young Fijians.
As the tournament continues, it brings a vibrant atmosphere filled with competitiveness and ambition, showcasing the rich rugby culture of Fiji while inspiring younger generations to chase their dreams through sports. The support from the community and the dedication of these young athletes signify a hopeful and promising future for rugby in Fiji.
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