Swire Shipping Fijian Drua players are experiencing a unique pre-season opportunity as they gather on the beautiful island of Kadavu. For several players, including Kemu Valetini, Brayton Legge, Etonia Waqa, Simione Kuruvoli, Philip Baselala, and Vuate Karawalevu, this trip marks a significant return to their ancestral roots, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia and pride.
The Drua has established their pre-season camp at Namalata Central School, where they have been actively training since Tuesday. For Valetini, who has never visited his family’s village in Galoa, this journey has been particularly meaningful. He expressed gratitude for reconnecting with his heritage and noted, “It means a lot coming back to a place where my dad was born… to come back here makes me feel happy and grateful.”
Similar sentiments were echoed by Brayton Legge, hailing from Lawaki Village. This is his first time being home, and he described the experience as humbling, remarking on the stunning landscape that surrounds the area, including mountains and the ocean.
Philip Baselala from Solotavui Village expressed joy in sharing the beauty of his home with teammates, highlighting the team-bonding aspect of their training. He called it a privilege to showcase his “hidden paradise.”
The Drua players are also making a positive impact on the local community. Kuruvoli reflected on the significance of connecting with family and the younger generation who eagerly attended their training sessions, reinforcing their ties to the island.
For Etonia Waqa and Vuate Karawalevu, who have not visited Kadavu in nearly a decade, returning with their team has allowed them to reflect on their cultural roots and is a celebration of their heritage, which makes the pre-season camp even more special.
This homecoming trip showcases not just training and preparation for the upcoming season but also a heartfelt reconnection with their roots, enhancing both their team spirit and community engagement. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural pride and connection to one’s homeland, leaving a lasting legacy for the players and the island of Kadavu alike.
This journey reflects a beautiful blending of sportsmanship and personal history, making it a truly remarkable experience for the Drua players as they prepare for the season ahead with renewed passion and connection to their identity.
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