For many young men, rugby presents a captivating opportunity, often serving as a gateway to recognition and a potential escape from tough circumstances. Adriu Nabose embodies this experience, illustrating how the sport can be pivotal while underscoring the lasting importance of education.
Nabose, originally from the village of Macuata with familial ties to Cakaudrove, made significant life changes by relocating to Suva for his secondary education. He enrolled at Nasinu Muslim College, but his passion for rugby eventually took center stage, leading him to prioritize the sport over academics. “I started pursuing rugby and things were going really well,” Nabose shared, reflecting on his initial success.
However, it was his parents who urged him to consider his long-term future beyond the sport. Their advice proved invaluable; two years ago, he joined the Nabua Matua Programme, an alternative educational initiative aimed at supporting school dropouts and working students seeking a fresh start. Initially, he faced challenges in adapting to the program, particularly when studying alongside older peers. “I came here in 2024 and it was challenging. I was studying with people who were more mature than me, and communication was difficult at the beginning,” he admitted.
Despite the hurdles, Nabose persevered and ultimately completed Year 12, followed by Year 13, attributing his success to determination and the support of his program peers. His journey resonates with many young athletes who wrestle with the balance of sports and education, as many opt to prioritize rugby at the risk of neglecting their schooling.
He cautions others, noting the potential pitfalls of focusing solely on the sport. “Playing rugby is not bad. But once you get injured, it’s 50–50,” he reflected, drawing from his own experiences with injuries while competing against older opponents. This experience encouraged him to think critically about his future and seek a backup plan.
With that backup in place, Nabose has received a university offer and plans to pursue studies in architecture, focusing on architectural drafting. “Drawing is one of my strengths. I enjoy art, and architecture fits well with that.” With encouragement from his family, he set his sights on this path, committing to complete his studies and aspire toward a scholarship to further his education.
Looking ahead, Nabose has clear ambitions to balance both his studies and his love for rugby. “I’m thinking of playing and studying at the same time. There are days when you don’t have classes, so you can train,” he explained, envisioning a future that marries both passions.
To other young men who might be wary about returning to school, particularly those considering the Matua Programme but experiencing self-doubt, he offers encouragement: “It takes courage to come back and study. Sometimes people talk you down and say it’s not worth it, but Matua gives you a second chance.” He emphasizes the importance of commitment, asserting that even the briefest classes carry significant value for those who arrive with the determination to succeed.
As Nabose looks forward, he recognizes that education is now the cornerstone of his aspirations, committed to carving out a future that encompasses far more than just his achievements on the rugby field.
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