Former Australian Wallaby and Fijian Rugby legend, Lote Tuqiri, helped to inspire his village-side team, Ratu Filise, to a last minute tie against a tough Napolioni Bolaca led Wadigi Salvo side at the MacDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast 7s.
The team drew 17-all, earning them a spot in the bowl quarter finals.
The Namatakula-native is currently in Fiji as part of the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports support to the Coral Coast 7s tournament.
Tuqiri will also be awarding the Lote Tuqiri medal to the best player of the Youth division. Previous winners of the medal include Ilaisa Droasese, Ilikima Naruma and Nailati Ukalele.
Tuqiri says it’s been a dream to be back home doing what he loves and helping to inspire future Fijian men and women rugby stars.
He says the MacDonald’s Coral Coast 7s is one of the toughest competitions out there and it is a real honour to travel here with the Australian teams to help support the tournament and inspire a pathway towards professional careers for Fijian players.
Tuqiri hopes to be back in Fiji more frequently this year, stating that it is great news that the Australian Government is supporting the Drua teams to play more Super Rugby Pacific and Super W games here in Fiji.
He adds he can not wait to get back to Fiji and experience the atmosphere during the season.
