Ratu Tevita Waranaivalu, the 2024 Footballer of the Year, has emotionally dedicated his prestigious achievement to his late grandfather, Simione Mototabua, who passed away at the age of 80 last week. At a heartfelt awards ceremony held in Nadi, Waranaivalu expressed his gratitude and sadness, acknowledging the significant role his grandfather played in his life as a personal motivator.
Waranaivalu, who represents Fiji in futsal, beach soccer, and football, shared that his grandfather always urged him to pursue excellence while maintaining humility and discipline. As he received the top honor, Waranaivalu reflected on how much he wished his grandfather could witness this special moment in his life. He conveyed heartfelt sentiments, expressing confidence that his grandfather is proud and showering him with blessings from above.
At 29 years old, Waranaivalu was chosen for this accolade over other notable contenders such as Thomas Dunn from Navua and Merrill Nand from Suva. His full story will be featured in an upcoming publication.
This dedication not only highlights the deep familial connections that often fuel an athlete’s journey but also serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting family values and grounding oneself in humility amidst accomplishments.
In a world often characterized by competition and individual achievement, Waranaivalu’s story is a poignant reminder of love, loss, and the enduring influence of those who inspire us, showing how our loved ones’ guidance can shape our paths even in their absence.
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