The Fiji rugby league community is grieving the loss of Mesake Ravonu, a former Fijian international player and junior representative for the Canterbury Bulldogs, who tragically passed away at the young age of 22 on Monday in Nadi after a courageous battle with kidney disease.
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs expressed their deep sorrow in a statement regarding Ravonu’s untimely passing, remembering him fondly as a former player on their Jersey Flegg team. Hailing from Buretu in Tailevu, Ravonu made his debut with the Fiji Bati during the 2023 Pacific Championship, marking a significant milestone in his young career.
Ravonu joined the Bulldogs in 2022 but faced a challenging start due to two serious injuries that plagued his first season. However, his unwavering determination paid off, culminating in his selection for the Fiji Bati squad—an achievement that brought immense pride to his family. In 2024, he was elevated to the Bulldogs’ New South Wales Cup squad. Unfortunately, he had to retire prematurely when it was revealed that he had been living with an auto-immune kidney disease.
The Bulldogs organization and the wider rugby community remember Mesake Ravonu not only for his talent on the field but also for his infectious smile and the joy he brought to those around him. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players, emphasizing resilience in the face of adversity. As the community mourns his loss, they also celebrate the impact he made during his time in the sport.
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