Aca Ratuva, a former flanker for the Flying Fijians, fondly recalls his journey from a young boy playing touch rugby on the beaches of Nadroga to making his mark on the international rugby stage. He acknowledges that donning the white jersey for Fiji is not just a personal achievement but carries the weight of expectations and responsibility.
Ratuva, who made his debut for the national team on June 3, 2005, against the New Zealand Māori, reflects on how he was playing club rugby in France when he received the call from then-coach Wayne Pivac, sparking his international rugby career. For Ratuva, like many Fijian youths, the dream began in childhood, playing rugby among friends and developing a passion for the sport.
His most cherished moment came during the 2007 Rugby World Cup when Fiji secured a monumental victory against Wales, who were the defending European champions at the time. Ratuva emphasizes the significance of hard work, stating, “There is one advice, hard work pays off. You might not see it now, but definitely, the goods will come.”
This inspirational journey parallels the stories of many young athletes in Fiji who aspire to achieve greatness in rugby, such as Rafaele Tuikitai Waqalala, a Year 10 student recently chosen for the Fijian Drua Academy. Like Ratuva, Waqalala attributes his motivation to his family and community, underscoring the values of hard work, discipline, and resilience that are pivotal in both their journeys.
The overlapping narratives of Ratuva and Waqalala illustrate a broader theme of determination and community support in the pursuit of sporting dreams in Fiji. This fosters a hopeful spirit that, with dedication and the right guidance, young athletes can not only achieve their aspirations but also inspire future generations to follow in their footsteps.
Leave a comment