Fiji Airways Fijian men’s rugby player Rauto Vakadranu has shared an important message for his fellow athletes during the festive season, emphasizing that no one is above the law. The 27-year-old corrections officer highlighted the temptations and potential pitfalls that can arise during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Hailing from Namosi, Vakadranu has already made his mark in the sport, having played in the Vancouver and Los Angeles legs of the SVNS series this year, as well as representing the national team in the Mataso 7s last month. Looking ahead, he expressed his aspiration to return to the main team by 2025, stating, “My goal for 2025 is to play for another leg.”
Acknowledging the fierce competition within the squad, he noted that individual performance and fitness are crucial in securing a spot on the team. Despite being the only player from Wardens rugby in the current extended squad, Vakadranu feels supported and inspired by the team, crediting their environment for his growth and persistence in the sport.
He also reflected on the influence of his peers, particularly mentioning Wardens player Josua Vakurinabili, whose gameplay he admired during his school years. Vakadranu believes the discipline instilled through rugby challenges players to uphold their aspirations, especially during this festive time when distractions may arise.
As the Fiji 7s squad takes a break for Christmas and New Year, training will resume in January, with their next competition being the McDonald’s Coral Coast 7s scheduled for January 16-18 at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
This holiday season, Vakadranu’s message serves as a reminder for athletes to stay focused on their goals and make responsible choices, reinforcing the values of discipline and commitment that are integral to rugby.
In summary, this article highlights the aspiration of a dedicated athlete while promoting a positive message of responsibility and focus during a season that can often lead to distractions. By prioritizing fitness and teamwork, Vakadranu exemplifies the spirit of rugby and encourages others to do the same.
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