Setareki Turagacoke, a promising 19-year-old rugby player and the youngest member of the Flying Fijians, faced an unimaginable loss at the beginning of 2024. Turagacoke lost his mother, Vani Ranavue, last Saturday after a brief illness. This news comes shortly after a significant milestone in his career, having debuted for the Flying Fijians in a Test match against Spain on November 17.
From France, Turagacoke reflected on his bond with his mother and how she was his biggest supporter throughout his rugby journey. He recounted her emotional reaction upon hearing of his debut, stating, “When I informed her of my Flying Fijian debut she cried and told me that I have finally achieved my dreams.”
Tragically, Turagacoke received news of his mother’s passing while overseas. He expressed how his mother’s advice before games—enjoying the game, having faith, and trusting himself—will now be missed deeply. He revealed that she had concealed her illness from him and his siblings, leaving them devastated by her sudden loss.
Vani Ranavue, originally from Naselai village in Tailevu, leaves behind four children, with Turagacoke pledging to take care of his younger siblings alongside his older brother. “If I had the chance to say goodbye; I would’ve thanked her for raising us up as she never once said no to my older brother and I,” he shared, highlighting the profound impact she had on their lives.
Turagacoke, who is returning to Fiji for his mother’s funeral, emphasized the importance of cherishing family ties. He urged young people to stay close to their parents, stating, “We don’t know when we’ll leave this world but only God… I urge them to spend time with their family at this moment and thank them for their love and support over the years.”
Despite this personal tragedy, Turagacoke has shown resilience in his rugby career. He made a notable impact during his debut match against Spain, scoring a try and contributing to a 33-19 victory for Fiji. His performance earned him a place on the match-day roster against Ireland, where he again scored, showcasing his growing talent on the field.
As Setareki Turagacoke navigates this challenging moment in his life, his focus remains on family and honoring the memory of his mother while continuing to pursue his dreams in rugby. This dedication serves as a hopeful reminder of the strength that can emerge from adversity.
In summary, while the tragic loss of his mother weighs heavily on his heart, Turagacoke’s commitment to his family and his professional aspirations highlight a powerful message about love, resilience, and the bonds that connect us.
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