Fiji National University (FNU) student and Fiji 7’s men’s rugby team player, Iosefo Masi lives by a simple piece of advice ‘instead of waiting for opportunities, start creating it’.
The 23-year-old rugby fanatic who was part of the elite team that recently won the gold medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics in Japan recalled the days when he had to manage his tertiary studies while also prioritising rugby training in the lead up to the international event.
Masi is a final year Bachelor of Science in Fisheries student at the FNU’s College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF).
“I have always been committed to my studies, but I am passionate about rugby. I remember during training, I had to find ways to make it to the training ground. I had to forgo several classes, particularly on Friday’s just so I can participate in the weekend rugby matches,” said Masi.
“Basically that was the most difficult phase because as a student, I needed to have a 75 per cent attendance to pass my final examination and in sports, if I had to play in the weekend, I needed to train every day and most of the training sessions were usually held during the day.”
“So I understand the difficulties of meeting deadlines and the struggles of a student’s life very well. I am glad that despite all these struggles, I have been able to balance my commitments well,” he said.
He said the impetus of playing in the national team came at the age of 15 when he was attending the Holy Cross College in Wairiki, Taveuni.
“To further develop my skills in the rugby field, I moved from Taveuni to Suva, where I attended Suva Grammar School. I had the opportunity to play for the U-18 team in the 2016 Deans competition.”
“Later I was part of the Tabadamu team before I was selected to represent Fiji at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics which I believe was the result of my years of hard work, grit and determination. It was an overwhelming experience to have played for Fiji,” mentioned the gold-medal winner.
Incredibly delighted with Masi’s success, FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Toby Wilkinson has commended the young player for his positive attitude and ability to balance his studies and interests.
“It does take special commitment and discipline and for Masi to attain a major milestone early in his sporting career is nothing short of a remarkable feat and we, the FNU community are proud of his achievements,” said Professor Wilkinson.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Masi for his commitment, sacrifice and being an inspiration to others out there who can follow in his footsteps,” he said.
Now in his final year of studies, Masi is looking forward to completing his practical attachments before he can graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree from FNU.
