TAVEUNI boy Semisi Masirewa is all set for the Super Rugby season as he makes his debut with Australian franchise Western Force.

The 23-year-old outside back weighs in at 117kgs and stands at 1.87m (6ft 2inches) tall. He has blistering pace and his ability to step and burst through tackles had the Force chasing after him.

Hailing from the village of Vuna on the Garden Island, Masirewa never thought he would be rubbing shoulders with his rugby idols.

“I have always loved rugby and have been playing since I was eight years old,” Masirewa said.

“I never knew that I was going to get this far in my rugby career but it was always my dream to be a professional rugby player and be a high achiever.”

Masirewa said it was family support that had always motivated him to do better.

“My family always believed in me with my rugby, even when I doubted myself. They are always there for me and keep giving me positive feedback about my rugby and that’s why I keep pushing myself,” he added.

“My lovely mum, Ana Maria, sisters Morini and Akanisi brother Paula Jr and last but not least my dad Paula Masirewa Sr who’s not with us anymore and passed away four years ago.

“I have been playing rugby my whole life but I turned it into a career when my dad passed away.

“He did everything to get me to New Zealand and passed away a year later.

“0This was heartbreaking for me as he was my role model.

“My parents have gone through tough times and struggles for us (their children) to take us to where we are right now.”