Ponipate Loganimasi made the courageous decision to pursue a rugby career instead of attending university, a choice that his father, Joeli Kalougata, fully supported. In less than two years with the national sevens team, Loganimasi has quickly made his mark on the international rugby scene.
This year, he not only contributed to the men’s rugby sevens team by winning a silver medal at the Olympics but also became the sole Fijian player to be named in the World Rugby Men’s Sevens Dream Team of the Year, announced recently.
Loganimasi’s stellar performance continued during the Pacific Nations Cup in September, where he made a significant impact in his debut for the Flying Fijians. In the final match against Japan, coached by Eddie Jones, he scored two tries, helping secure a 41-17 victory and retaining the PNC title for Fiji.
In a further step in his professional journey, he signed with the Fijian Drua in October. Loganimasi hails from the village of Nabua in Koroalau, Cakaudrove, originally from Lovoni in Ono-i-Lau.
Kalougata expressed immense pride in his son’s achievements, noting that while the family encouraged Loganimasi to continue his education at Brigham Young University in the United States, he chose a different path. “My only advice to him was to depend on God for all his rugby plans,” he said. He emphasized the importance of hard work, humility, and listening as keys to success, stating, “If rugby will put food on the table for you – I’ll support your decision.”
Beyond rugby, Loganimasi is also a talented athlete in track and field, having won a gold medal in the 200m event at the Coca-Cola Games during his junior year at Navatu Secondary School, where he also participated in rugby and indoor basketball.
The World Rugby Men’s Sevens Dream Team includes other notable players like Selvyn Davids (South Africa), Antoine Dupont (France), and Matías Osadczuk (Argentina), showcasing the high level of talent present in international rugby sevens.
In summary, Loganimasi’s commitment and achievements serve as an inspiring example of following one’s passion and finding success on the global stage. He not only showcases the potential of Fijian athletes but also highlights the importance of support and faith in one’s journey, fostering hope for budding sports talents in the region.
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