Fiji Airways Fijian 7s players Joji Nasova and Iliavi Masori demonstrated remarkable commitment as they navigated through floodwaters on Thursday night to make it to their training session in Suva on Friday.
The two athletes began their journey from Toge Village in Ba after heavy rains triggered flooding in the area. Driven by their determination to attend a pivotal training session at the High-Performance gym, they courageously crossed two flooded bridges in the dark.
Nasova, 24, recounted their experience, emphasizing the significance of hard work and self-sacrifice. He mentioned that they had visited the village on Christmas Eve and decided to return to Suva for training on Thursday night. Their arduous trek led them to reach Suva at 3 AM on Friday, after which they managed a few hours of sleep before heading straight to the gym.
“I believe I need to work on my fitness and prepare well for the next 7s series round,” stated Nasova, noting the challenges faced along the way. Despite encountering flooded conditions when they left Ba Town at midnight, they were undeterred, knowing that their ambition to achieve success required hard work and commitment.
The duo’s story highlights that no challenge is insurmountable when it comes to representing Fiji at an international level. Nasova made his debut for the national team at the HSBC Hong Kong 7s in April this year, quickly gaining recognition for his dynamic playing style.
As part of their ongoing preparations, the Fiji 7s team is gearing up for the upcoming Perth 7s tournament in Australia, scheduled for January 26-28. In Pool C, they will face formidable teams such as New Zealand, France, and Samoa, while the Fijiana women’s team competes in Pool B alongside Brazil, Spain, and France.
This story not only highlights the dedication and resilience of the players but also serves as an inspiration for many aspiring athletes. Their unwavering commitment to their sport and country showcases the spirit of teamwork and sacrifice, which are essential qualities in the world of sports.
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