Ilaitia Tuisese, a former captain of the Flying Fijians and a rugby legend, has passed away. Tuisese had a remarkable rugby career, representing Fiji in a match against Wales in Suva in 1969. He was also part of the historic team that stunned the rugby world with their victory over the British & Irish Lions in 1977.
He later became the captain of the Flying Fijians during a golden era for the sport. Tuisese played a significant role in transforming the global perception of Fijian rugby. Notably, he was the first captain of Fiji’s pioneering national sevens team that participated in the Hong Kong Sevens in 1977, leading them to win the title.
In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Tuisese was inducted into the Fiji Rugby Hall of Fame in February 2019 and became a lifetime member of the Fiji Rugby Union in April of that year. The following year, he was honored as an Officer of the Order of Fiji.
He leaves behind his immediate and extended family, who are all profoundly affected by his loss.