Teenager Timoci Nagusa Junior is currently in Sydney participating in a one-week trial at the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs academy camp.
The 14-year-old from Dratabu, Nadi is making a name for himself without relying on the reputation of his father, a former Flying Fijians player. The young rugby league prospect has experience from the Milo Kaji competition and is already demonstrating his athletic prowess.
A student at Marist Brothers High School, Nagusa Junior holds the sub-junior boys’ shot put record with a throw of 15.04 meters and is also a member of the school’s Under-14 rugby union team.
“Rugby league is a completely different game with its own style and rules. It’s a real eye-opener,” Nagusa Junior said. “Nothing is impossible if the mind is open and the heart is willing. The NRL atmosphere is really ‘wowza’.”
His mother, Makereta Losalini Tuilevuka, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, attributing it to divine intervention. “JJ had no prior knowledge of the game, and I am amazed at how much he’s progressing,” she said. “The Canterbury Bulldogs have invited him to test his skills and will provide him with a program to follow. He wants to return before Saturday as his Marist U14 team has a semi-final match.”
Speaking from Sydney, Nagusa Junior emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities and working hard. “The game is new to me, and I’ll need some time to get accustomed to it. My mom has always supported me, and I aim to make her proud,” he added.
Born in Montpellier, France, Nagusa Junior lived there for five years before moving to Fiji. His talent was initially spotted by Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata.
Kativerata accompanied Nagusa Junior to the Bulldogs camp, observing the young athlete’s attentiveness. “Listening is often a challenge for our players, especially those in the Under-16 and U17 categories, but at just 14 years old, he’s very good. I’ve been following his progress since the Kaji competition,” Kativerata commented.
NRL superstar Viliame Kikau is also mentoring Nagusa Junior by providing tips on schedules and important dos and don’ts. “When he returns, we’ll discuss further steps,” Kativerata said. “He has the talent, and we need to nurture it carefully for him to shine.”