A steadfast devotion to God is what former Flying Fijians flanker and captain Akapusi Qera says has been the major key in his rugby career.
He expressed those sentiments in an interview with Fiji Rugby recently, where he recounted his experience of playing in the previous home Test match against Scotland in 2017.
Fiji won the Test in a close 27-22 finish.
“Building up, going into the stadium, just to try and prepare myself spiritually, the best major key in my rugby career is my relationship with God,” the former number eight said.
“Because I know there were times in my life that I would have finished off or just thrown in the towel with injuries and a lot of setbacks.
“But I thank the Lord for His guidance that I managed to pull through in those numbers of years that I’ve managed to represent Fiji and put smiles on people’s face.”
The former Lelean Memorial School student made his debut in the white jumper against Samoa in July 2005 and two years later, was named Fiji Rugby’s Player of the Year.
As a Flying Fijian, he made 65 appearances since his debut and garnered 45 points to his record in the game.
With an expansive stint in 15s, he also had the desire of switching to rugby 7s in 2006-2007 and 2008, however his contract with the English club Pertemps Bees in the first two years left him unable to do so.
He was named captain of the team for Fiji’s European tour in 2009, and at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, was handed its reins for a home Test against Tonga.
Meanwhile, the FIJI Water Flying Fijians will play the Wallabies this Sunday at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, Australia at 3.30pm.
The team had its first training session yesterday, as the final group of European-based players head into camp to commence preparations leading up to the Test on Sunday.
