For many young men, the allure of rugby can be all-consuming, offering a fast track to recognition and opportunity—and, for some, a means of escaping hardship.
For Adriu Nabose, rugby opened doors, but education ultimately gave him direction.
Mr Nabose, who hails from Macuata with maternal links to Cakaudrove, grew up in the village before moving to Suva for his secondary education.
He attended Nasinu Muslim College from Year 9 to Year 11, but his schooling was cut short when rugby began to take centre stage.
“I started pursuing rugby and things were going really well,” he said.
“I ended up in a very good place.”
But it was his parents who encouraged him to pause and think beyond the next match or tournament.
They urged him to return to school which was an advice that would prove pivotal.
Two years ago, Mr Nabose enrolled in the Nabua Matua Programme, an alternative education pathway designed to support school dropouts and working students seeking a second chance.
At first, the transition was not easy.
“I came here in 2024 and it was challenging. I was studying with people who were more mature than me, and communication was difficult at the beginning.”
Academically, the work demanded discipline and adjustment. But over time, he found his footing.
“Study-wise it was difficult, but it was also a beautiful experience.”
His perseverance paid off. Mr Nabose completed Year 12 through the program with strong results, before successfully passing Year 13 last year, achievements he credits to consistency and support.
His journey reflects a familiar story among young men balancing sport and education.
Many choose to give everything to rugby, often at the expense of school.
Mr Nabose understands the temptation but offers a word of caution.
“Playing rugby is not bad. But once you get injured, it’s 50–50.”
Having experienced injuries himself at a young age, often while playing against older opponents, he began to think long-term.
“I realised that if I get injured now, my rugby career could be over. So I had to think outside the box. I needed a back-up.”
That back-up is now firmly in place. Mr Nabose has secured a university offer and will begin tertiary studies next year in architecture, specialising in architectural drafting.
“Drawing is one of my strengths. I enjoy art, and architecture fits well with that. My family has been pushing me towards it, so I decided to pursue it.”
Looking ahead, he has clear goals.
He plans to complete his three-year course before applying for a scholarship to finish his architecture degree, a commitment that could see him studying for up to seven years in total.
“I’m ready to push myself.”
Despite this academic focus, rugby has not disappeared from his life. Instead, he hopes to balance both.
“I’m thinking of playing and studying at the same time. There are days when you don’t have classes, so you can train. That way I can continue playing while focusing on my education.”
For young men who remain uncertain about returning to school, particularly those who have heard of the Matua Programme but doubt themselves.
“It takes courage to come back and study. Sometimes people talk you down and say it’s not worth it, but Matua gives you a second chance.”
“It’s only three hours, but every class is worth it. If you come here with one thing in mind, to pass with good marks and get a good career, you can do it.”
The path forward was uncertain for Mr Nabose, but with education now at the centre of his plans, he is focused on building a future that extends well beyond the rugby field.
