Ponipate Loganimasi made a significant choice to pursue rugby over attending university, and his father, Joeli Kalougata, wholeheartedly supported his decision. Less than two years into his journey with the national sevens team, Loganimasi has made a remarkable impact on the international rugby scene.
This year, he not only secured an Olympic silver medal with the men’s rugby sevens team but was also the sole Fijian player recognized on the World Rugby Men’s Sevens Dream Team of the Year, which was recently revealed. His impressive trajectory continued as he debuted for the Flying Fijians during the World Rugby’s Pacific Nations Cup in September, where he scored two tries in a decisive 41-17 victory over Japan. This victory reaffirmed Fiji’s title in the tournament.
In October, Loganimasi signed with the Fijian Drua, marking another step in his burgeoning career. Hailing from the village of Nabua in Cakaudrove, this 26-year-old athlete originally comes from Lovoni in Ono-i-Lau. Speaking from Savusavu, Kalougata expressed immense pride in his son’s accomplishments.
While his family had encouraged him to follow a more traditional educational path at Brigham Young University in Utah, Loganimasi chose to pursue his passion for rugby. His father’s advice emphasized faith and hard work: “My only advice to him was to depend on God to lead him with all his rugby plans.” Kalougata noted that Loganimasi’s different style and dedication have propelled him from local sevens play to international success in a remarkably short period.
Kalougata also highlighted Loganimasi’s athletic versatility, mentioning that he was a gold medallist in the 200m event at the Coca-Cola Games during his junior year at Navatu Secondary School and that he also played rugby and indoor basketball throughout high school.
Loganimasi now stands among notable players on the Dream Team, which includes athletes like Selvyn Davids from South Africa and Antoine Dupont from France, showcasing the level of talent he has achieved.
The journey of Ponipate Loganimasi serves as an inspiring testament to the power of following one’s passion and the importance of familial support. His story reflects that dedication and faith can indeed lead to remarkable achievements in any chosen field.
This narrative also encourages young athletes to pursue their dreams relentlessly while balancing their aspirations with the guidance and wisdom of their families. As Loganimasi continues to shine on the international stage, there is hope that he will inspire many more to choose paths that align with their true passions.
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