Former Fiji 7s star and Bua speedster William Ryder is proving that age is just a number as he continues to play professional rugby at 43.
Ryder, once dubbed the “Twinkle Toes” of Fiji Rugby, helped his Solomon Islands-based club UsoTasi to a commanding 44-20 win over Islanders RC yesterday.
Renowned for his try-scoring brilliance and trademark goosesteps, Ryder was a standout in the Fiji Sevens team that won the Rugby World Cup Sevens in 2005.
Now, years later, he continues to make his mark, this time as a player and mentor for UsoTasi, inspiring and guiding younger players as they chase professional careers on the global stage.
Ryder says he is thankful to still be playing the game he loves and hopes to promote fitness and wellness among Fijians, especially with the increasing impact of lifestyle diseases.
He is currently based in the Solomon Islands, balancing his on-field performances with a commitment to mentoring the next generation.
