Fijian-born flanker Veveni Lasaqa is carving a niche for himself in Super Rugby, drawing from a rich personal history marked by his family’s sacrifices. Raised in Lautoka, Fiji, by his grandmother Emele Wabale, Lasaqa’s early life was shaped by her dedication to both his education and his budding rugby career. His father, Viliame Lasaqa, left for New Zealand in search of better opportunities, placing the responsibility of nurturing his son firmly on Emele’s shoulders.
In a heartfelt reflection, Emele spoke about her commitment to Lasaqa’s future, recalling, “I brought him up, took him to school, and that’s where he started playing rugby. He always dreamed of playing in big teams, and I knew he would go far when he joined the Lautoka under-nine team.”
Viliame, a former rugby player himself, made the difficult decision to step away from the sport to focus on providing for his son. He recognized Lasaqa’s potential early on, bringing him to New Zealand in 2012 to pursue greater opportunities. Now, as Lasaqa plays for the Highlanders in Super Rugby, he embodies the dreams and sacrifices of his family, determined to honor their belief in him.
In related news, Lasaqa’s recent selection for the Highlanders ahead of the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season is generating excitement among fans. Competing in the National Provincial Competition, he has impressed coaches, including Head Coach Jamie Joseph. Lasaqa will join a notable group of Fijian players on the squad, further enriching the team’s diversity and cultural heritage.
With the anticipation building around the Highlanders’ upcoming season, Lasaqa’s journey not only underscores his individual talent but also serves as an inspiration for young athletes from similar backgrounds. It highlights the power of dedication and the transformative impact of family support in achieving one’s dreams in the competitive world of rugby.
As the Highlanders prepare for their next match against the Hurricanes in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific, all eyes will be on Lasaqa as he takes to the field, carrying with him the hopes of his family and the aspirations of countless young players.
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