The Marist Brothers High School under-15 rugby team had significant motivation going into their semi-final match of the Vodafone Super Deans. They aimed for victory, particularly for their vice-captain, Senitiki Kuruvadua, who recently lost his father.
Kuruvadua played a pivotal role in their 22-7 triumph against Gospel High School in the semi-finals. Despite the emotional toll from his father’s passing, he maintained his composure during the match. He shared that his father had suffered from kidney failure, making his presence at the game bittersweet as funeral arrangements were taking place at home.
“I’ve just lost my father recently. He had kidney failure and being here wasn’t easy knowing that all the plans for the funeral are being held at home,” Kuruvadua stated. “It’s hard because I was very close to my father, but I thank God for giving me the strength to play this week and for the opportunity to be part of this team.”
His father, Tevita Kuruvadua, was a dedicated supporter of his rugby aspirations. “He was my number one fan and I really miss him,” Senitiki reflected. “I tried to be strong for my teammates as I am the vice-captain. I didn’t want to let them down, so I wanted to show them that I am strong and everything that happens is the will of God,” he added.
To honor Kuruvadua and his father, the team donned black armbands. In the changing room, they conveyed a message of unity, declaring they were all playing for Kuruvadua’s father, their supportive parents, coaches, trainers, and managers. “My dad would’ve told me to play for my team and my family at home, to give my very best and enjoy the game,” he said.
Kuruvadua and his Marist team are set to face Suva Grammar School in the final next weekend.