Ilaitia Tuisese, a former captain and star player for the Flying Fijians, has passed away.
His rugby career was remarkable, highlighted by his participation in a match against Wales in Suva in 1969, and he was part of the team that famously defeated the British & Irish Lions in 1977, surprising fans around the globe.
Tuisese later became the captain of the Flying Fijians, playing a crucial role during a time when rugby was gaining immense popularity. He was a key figure in changing the world’s view of Fijian rugby, notably as the first captain of the national sevens team that took part in the Hong Kong Sevens in 1977, where they secured the championship.
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 that April. The following year, he was honored with the title of Officer of the Order of Fiji.
He is survived by his immediate and extended family, who are mourning his significant loss.