Sireli Maqala, a center for the Flying Fijians rugby team, recently dedicated his time to inspire the Macuata rugby side ahead of their Skipper Cup opener against Nadroga at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Although he currently plays for Bayonne in France and is recognized as one of the top centers in the French Top 14 league, Maqala’s humble beginnings in Labasa are central to his story.
During a motivational session with the Macuata players, Maqala shared insights from his upbringing, including his experiences at local schools such as Bethel Primary and All Saints Secondary. He reminisced about playing barefoot and encouraged the young athletes, illustrating that determination and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements, just as they did for him.
Key messages from Maqala’s talk emphasized the importance of discipline, listening to one’s parents, setting goals, and serving a higher purpose, which he believes are essential components of success. He encouraged the Macuata players to pursue their dreams with the same fervor, instilling hope for a bright future in rugby for the aspiring athletes.
The Macuata Rugby Union expressed gratitude to Maqala and his family for their support, emphasizing the positive impact his words had on the young players. They believe many of these athletes carry the potential to excel in their rugby journey, making this interaction not just an inspiring moment but a key building block for the development of rugby talent in Fiji.
This spirit of mentorship amidst the backdrop of his international success underscores Maqala’s commitment to uplifting his community and reflects the hopeful promise of Fijian rugby continuing to thrive on the global stage.
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