As the countdown begins for the much-anticipated clash between the Fiji Water Flying Fijians and Ikale Tahi Tonga, Bristol Bears star Viliame Mata was emotional as he received his jersey from one of his rugby mentors, Fiji Airways Men's National 7s Coach Osea Kolinisau.
At the ceremony, Kolinisau officiated the jersey presentation and delivered a powerful message, urging the team to be brave like David referencing the biblical event as they prepared for their upcoming test against Tonga.
He told the squad they had been selected because the coaches saw that David was in all of them.
He added that the team's courage would be tested today when they open their 2025 Pacific Nations Cup campaign against a formidable Tonga side, who come into the match after a strong victory over Samoa last week.
Reflecting on his journey, Mata shared that Kolinisau played a pivotal role in shaping his early rugby career during the time when he first joined the national 7s team years ago.
He recalled how Kolinisau took him under his wing during those formative years and how he grew up watching and admiring him as a player.
Mata says that it was an honour to play alongside his mentor, describing Kolinisau as a great player and a true leader both on and off the field.
Mata will start at number 8 when Fiji play Tonga at 3pm today at the HFC Bank Stadium in Round 2 of the Asahi Super Dry Pacific Nations Cup.
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