Apisai Naevo reflects on his deep-rooted connection to rugby, a connection that he believes was established even before his first match. Growing up in Nawaka, a community known for producing over 50 national players across different generations, rugby was ingrained in his upbringing. “When we were born, we were raised with the ball,” Naevo remarked, indicating how natural the sport feels to him.
Naevo made his debut for the Flying Fijians in 1996 in a match against Hong Kong, where he celebrated a try in a significant 64–11 victory. This impactful moment was pivotal, marking his name in the national team and leading to participation in the Rugby World Cups in both 1999 and 2003.
Despite his successes, Naevo’s journey has not been without hurdles. He took a break from formal schooling at Ratu Navula College to work on his family farm but continued to play for the Nawaka 7s team, eventually joining the Nadi rugby club. His journey led him to New Zealand, where he found opportunities in professional rugby with Counties Manukau, the Blues, and the Chiefs in Super Rugby.
One notable challenge Naevo faced was the preparation time for matches, which was often limited. “We’d meet just a week before the game,” he recalled, contrasting that experience with the more structured training camps available to current players. “A lot has changed for Fiji rugby.”
Among his highlights was being part of Fiji’s first-ever win over Scotland in 1998, a memorable achievement that Naevo cherishes deeply. His story resonates with the burgeoning talent in Fiji’s rugby scene, reflecting how determination, community support, and shared heritage continue to forge the paths for many aspiring players.
As rugby in Fiji progresses, Naevo’s experiences serve as both inspiration and a reminder of the sport’s profound roots in the culture. His journey emphasizes not only personal triumph but also the collective legacy of rugby in Fiji, shining a light on the continued potential of future generations aiming for greatness in the sport.
This narrative showcases the importance of nurturing young talent and the role of mentorship in the growth of players as they aspire to represent their country on the international stage, reinforcing a hopeful outlook for the future of Fijian rugby.
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