Sam Matavesi, hooker for the Flying Fijians at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, emphasized the importance of wearing the national jersey and representing Fiji, regardless of the match’s significance, whether it be a quarterfinal in the World Cup or a game against Georgia in Spain. In a recent social media post, Matavesi shared, “It’s wearing the white jersey and representing our country and people.”
He highlighted that the players have never sought exorbitant salaries but simply desired to be compensated fairly in a timely manner. Matavesi noted that there was a pay increase achieved in 2019 due to the efforts of senior players, and another increase in 2023 that was also the result of their hard work.
He expressed frustration over having to inform Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) that players were serious about striking during a World Cup quarterfinal in order to receive their agreed-upon payments. Matavesi stressed the need for significant reform within the FRU, stating, “Imagine if we had a board that backed the players and management, and everyone’s goal was to win.”
Reflecting on his time with the national team, he remarked that ongoing issues have become the norm in every training camp. “If it wasn’t for Wyse, Semi, Bots, and others, this would carry on and we’d only see the smallest percentage of what we can do, but more importantly what players who represent Fiji can achieve in 5 and 10 years,” he added. Matavesi concluded by urging for necessary changes within the organization.