Jeneiro Wakeham, a former Fiji Under-20 rugby player, is making waves as he becomes the first Fijian to join the International Player Pathway Program Class of 2025 within the National Football League (NFL) in the United States. Currently in the seventh week of the program, Wakeham expressed his hope that his journey will inspire more young Fijian athletes to explore similar opportunities.
While he misses rugby, an integral part of Fijian culture, Wakeham embraced the chance to enter American football without hesitation. He stated, “It was not a hard decision to take up this opportunity; the only bit I found hard was leaving Rugby because you know Rugby back home is a big thing for us I-taukeis.”
Wakeham is one of 13 athletes from 12 different nations navigating their paths in the NFL. His passion for rugby ignited at the age of seven, and by just 15, he was competing against adult players. His rugby background includes experiences with the Stade Francais academy in France and stints with Ealing Trailfinders in London.
Despite his limited previous exposure to American football—mainly watching a few Super Bowls and following highlights on social media—Wakeham looks up to Jordan Mailata, the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive tackle who successfully transitioned through the same program.
Wakeham’s story underscores the potential for young Fijian athletes to extend their horizons beyond traditional sports. His journey is a source of inspiration and symbolizes hope for future generations of athletes in Fiji as they seek to carve their own paths in various sporting arenas.
Comment: Jeneiro Wakeham’s transition from rugby to American football highlights the remarkable adaptability of athletes. His experience emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and exploring new avenues in sports, paving the way for others to follow suit. Such journeys demonstrate that with perseverance and a readiness to embrace change, athletes can achieve success in diverse fields.
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